Stephen M. Ross Emerging Scholars Program

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Four graduates stand side by side in front of a step‑and‑repeat backdrop that reads “Palm Beach State College” and “Knowledge Is Forever.” Each graduate wears a black cap and gown and holds a white and teal stole with printed text. A fifth person in a green blazer stands between two of the graduates. The group is posed facing the camera, with the backdrop filling the background.

Emerging Scholars celebrate their PBSC graduation. From left: Armando Casarella, A.S. in Electrical Power Technology; Janina Velasquez Roblero, A.S. in Human Services – Youth Development; Dr. Nadine Leblanc, director of the Stephen M. Ross Emerging Scholars Program; Emerson Blatche Jr., A.S. in Electrical Power Technology.

The Stephen M. Ross Emerging Scholars Program at Palm Beach State College is a comprehensive support initiative that helps students thrive academically, personally and professionally as they progress from middle and high school to college graduation and professional careers.

Through a combination of financial support, personalized academic advising, enriching summer academy programs and more, Emerging Scholars are equipped with the tools and guidance they need to achieve their goals and start their futures with confidence.

All programming is free for Emerging Scholars! Plus, students can earn tuition-free college diplomas and workforce certificates from Palm Beach State College, thanks to the Stephen M. Ross Scholarship Fund and the generosity of the Related Ross Foundation. Programming is hosted by PBSC’s Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler Student Success Center.

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Become an Emerging Scholar

Students are invited to participate in programming offered by the Stephen M. Ross Emerging Scholars Program as early as 6th grade, but they may get involved any time during their middle and high school journeys. Emerging Scholars must attend participating middle and high schools in Palm Beach County.

Participating Schools

The Stephen M. Ross Emerging Scholars Program hosted by Palm Beach State College is open to students at the following middle and high schools. As noted, some schools have embedded PBSC advisors who serve students on site.

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Middle Schools

Bear Lakes Middle School
Conniston Community Middle School
Lake Worth Middle School
Roosevelt Community Middle School

High Schools

Forest Hill Community High School (on-site advisor)
Palm Beach Lakes Community High School (on-site advisor)

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Sample Journey for Emerging Scholars

Emerging Scholars are empowered to personalize their academic journeys. View a sample journey that students may follow to achieve a PBSC college degree or certification.

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