Every year, Florida identifies its brightest young minds in science, technology, engineering, and math, and this year, Lee County has plenty to celebrate.
Austin Summy and Alexis Davis of Fort Myers High School and Sarah King of Riverdale High School have been named this year’s Lee County Sunshine State Scholars. Sara Huda, also of Fort Myers High School, was named this year’s alternate. The Sunshine State Scholars Recognition Program has celebrated Florida’s top 11th grade STEM students since 1997, connecting them with opportunities and resources to help them build futures they are working toward.
STEM fields are shaping nearly every aspect of modern life, from the technology we use every day to the medical breakthroughs that save lives, the infrastructure that connects communities, and the innovators that drive Florida’s growing economy. The students who pursue these fields are not just building careers for themselves, they are helping build the world around them. Programs like Sunshine State Scholars exist to make sure those students are seen, supported, and encouraged to keep going.
In March, Austin, Alexis, and Sarah, along with their families, travel to Orlando for a two-day program where they were recognized for their achievements, sat down with STEM leaders to talk about careers and internships, and connected with representatives from Florida’s colleges and universities to explore programs of study and available scholarships.
For these students, earning this recognition is a reflection of years of hard work and a genuine curiosity that goes well beyond the classroom.
“My love for STEM has shaped who I am as a student by improving my problem-solving skills, my logical reasoning, and my willingness to overcome challenges,” said Austin. “While a math problem may seem nothing more than that, to me it is a challenge that tests the mind and the character.”
The Orlando experience pushed each of them to think differently about what their future in STEM could look like. For Alexis, it reshaped how she sees collaboration.
“The Sunshine State Scholar convention converted my idea of my STEM future from a solo venture into an experience with a team,” she said.
Sarah left with a clearer picture of her own path after a conversation that opened a door she had not fully considered.
“Talking to the UNF biology department head allowed me to better understand the different ways I could work toward getting into medical school directly after high school,” she said.
For younger students still finding their footing in math and science, the Scholars offer some hard-earned perspective.
“Learn to love the process,” said Alexis. “Passion for the journey rather than simply the end result will allow you to persevere through the tough times.”
“Never give up,” added Austin. “If you don’t believe in yourself, why should anyone else?”
The Sunshine State Scholars program is part of a statewide effort to recruit Florida’s top STEM students to pursue their college education right here in Florida, investing in homegrown talent that will power the state’s future. For these four Lee County students, that future is already taking shape.
The School District of Lee County congratulates Austin, Sarah, and Sara on this recognition and cannot wait to see where their curiosity takes them next.