Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship awards up to $20,000 to first recipient
- Isis Climes
- 10 hours ago
- 3 min read
Priscilla Rose McFadden was a luminary figure in the Pinellas County community. The Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship is an extension of her grace.
McFadden was a lifetime resident of St. Petersburg, Florida; born in 1953 and raised in a spiritual household, McFadden was no stranger to extending compassion to all she encountered. Her lifework extended to several nonprofit organizations, including Pinellas Opportunity Council, Operation PAR, Eckerd Community Alternatives, and St. Petersburg Free Clinic. Until her passing in late October 2025, McFadden served her community with unyielding charity.
McFadden held education in high regard and spent countless hours shaping the fundamental building blocks for children, hoping they’d pursue higher education. The Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship began shortly after her passing and honors her legacy by providing scholarships to support an incoming college student studying early education at a college/university.
The scholarship supports one local college student for up to four years as they pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education (PreK–5). Recipients are awarded $5,000 per year for up to 4 years, totaling $20,000 throughout their matriculation in higher education. This prestigious scholarship is awarded in partnership through the Woodson Warriors Scholarships Fund to a student who reflects Priscilla’s hallmark qualities: compassion, genuineness, commitment, and heartfelt service to others.
“Our goal of $20,000 per student is more than a gift; it’s an investment in the next generation of educators and community leaders, carrying Priscilla’s name and mission forward while ensuring her voice, vision, and impact continue to inspire and uplift our community for generations to come,” said Mond.
Applications are currently closed for the 2026 Woodson Warriors Scholarships Fund and, subsequently, the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship. Interested participants can reach out via email to woodsonmuseum@gmail.com or priscillamcfaddenscholarship@gmail.com for questions regarding the application dates for the upcoming scholarship funds.
The Advisory Committee of the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship consists of Priscilla’s sister, Linda McFadden; great-niece, Kayla Mond; former co-worker, Dr. Barbara Morrison-Rodriguez; and friend, Delquanda Turner Smith.
“We hope this scholarship gives students the freedom to pursue their dreams without the financial burden of student loans. By reducing financial stress, the scholarship will allow students to focus on their education and take advantage of opportunities to foster their skills and positively impact the community,” said Mond.
Gabrielle Ardoin carries the honor of being the first recipient of the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship.
“We chose Gabrielle Ardoin because of her dedication to making a positive impact on the community through education, while inspiring younger generations and showing them that opportunities that may seem unattainable are within reach,” said Mond.
“With their commitment to learning, this student can impact future generations of leaders and advocates within their community,” she added.
To donate to the Priscilla Rose McFadden Scholarship, you can visit their site or scan the QR code below.
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