The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation (FASF) continued its mission of developing the next generation of industry leaders during the Florida Attractions Association's 2026 Annual Conference, awarding five scholarships and four professional development grants that bring the Foundation's total investment in future leaders to more than $142,000 since its inception.
Founded eleven years ago through the vision and generosity of FAA members, the Foundation was created to support students and emerging professionals pursuing careers in Florida's attractions and tourism industry. In recent years, the Foundation expanded its impact by adding professional development grants for FAA member organizations, further strengthening the industry's workforce pipeline.
"This Foundation exists because our members believe in giving back, lifting others up, and creating opportunities for the people who make our industry exceptional," said Jennifer Berthiaume, Chairman of the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation. "By investing in students and professionals today, we are helping ensure that Florida's attractions industry remains resilient, innovative, and globally recognized for generations to come."
Celebrating Future Leaders
The Foundation awarded five $2,000 scholarships to outstanding students and emerging professionals whose academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to the tourism industry distinguished them among a competitive field of applicants.
Among this year's recipients was Samantha Cuson, a Marine Science student at Eckerd College and volunteer diver with The Florida Aquarium. Through research with NOAA, marine ecology studies, and public science education initiatives, Cuson has demonstrated a passion for conservation and environmental stewardship. She received the Barbara Kenney Honorary Scholarship, established through the generosity of Barbara Kenney, whose seed funding helped launch the Foundation eleven years ago.
The Arthur Hertz Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Isabella Arosemena, an emerging leader whose work spans environmental science, climate resilience, tourism, and entrepreneurship. A graduate of the University of Miami and team member at Sawgrass Recreation Park, Arosemena has distinguished herself through academic excellence and a commitment to protecting Florida's natural resources.
Julie Grossman, a student at the University of Central Florida Rosen College of Hospitality Management and a Walt Disney World attractions cast member, received the Joe Ryan Memorial Scholarship. Grossman is pursuing a degree in Theme Park and Attraction Management and aspires to build a career creating memorable guest experiences within the attractions industry.
Two additional scholarships were awarded to graduate students already making meaningful contributions within the tourism industry. Sophie Duguid, a graduate student at UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, has developed leadership experience with SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Florida, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Olivia Turpening, Community Relations Manager for Visit Sarasota County, is pursuing a master's degree while serving as a leader in tourism communications, community engagement, and destination advocacy.
Supporting Professional Growth
In addition to scholarships, the Foundation awarded four professional development grants to FAA member organizations seeking to strengthen employee development, leadership training, and organizational excellence.
Flamingo Gardens received funding to develop a comprehensive Hospitality Excellence Program focused on guest service, leadership development, mentoring, and career advancement opportunities for frontline employees.
Miami Children's Museum will utilize grant funding to support participation in nationally recognized museum leadership and education conferences, enhancing programming, guest engagement, and staff development initiatives.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art received support for participation in the Disney Institute's Leadership Excellence program, helping strengthen leadership skills, communication, accessibility, and guest-centered service throughout the organization.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park was awarded funding to complete the International Facilities Management Association's Facilities Management Professional Certification program, supporting leadership development, operational efficiency, and long-term facility planning.
Building a Stronger Future
As the Foundation enters its second decade, its impact continues to grow. What began as a vision to support aspiring professionals has evolved into a meaningful investment in both the future workforce and the ongoing development of industry leaders.
The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation's commitment to scholarships and professional development reflects the industry's shared belief that investing in people is one of the most important ways to ensure the continued success of Florida's attractions industry.
Applications for the Foundation's next round of scholarships and professional development grants will open in February 2027.
