The Jeannett Slesnick Community Spirit Scholarship

The Jeannett Slesnick Community Spirit Scholarship provides up to four years of college tuition assistance to a graduating senior from Coral Gables High School, Miami Senior High School or International Studies Preparatory Academy (ISPA) who has demonstrated an interest in communications, journalism, leadership and/or historic preservation. Special attention will be given to applicants who are applying to the University of Florida, Florida International University, the University of Virginia, the University of Mary Washington, or St. Thomas University (Miami Gardens). The scholarship was established in 2022 by Jeannett and Don Slesnick to support educational opportunities for deserving local high school graduates. As a Past Chair of the Board of the Coral Gables Community Foundation, Jeannett dedicated her life to being involved in her community. In addition to her successful real estate career, Jeannett served as a City Commissioner in Coral Gables and served on numerous boards of non-profit organizations including the South Florida Red Cross, Coral Gables Museum, Actors' Playhouse, Junior League of Miami and St. Phillip's Episcopal Church. Applicants must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0, possess a desire to study communications, journalism, leadership and/or historic preservation, demonstrate financial need (provide a FAFSA score report), and submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, mentor, coach or supervisor. Students must apply to at least one of the following institutions: University of Florida, University of Virginia, University of Mary Washington, or St. Thomas University. This is a one-year award with recent awards ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 in 2025. The scholarship has awarded 31 scholarships since 2019, supporting students pursuing careers in journalism, communications, government, and historic preservation.