KEY WEST, FL, December 1, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) Foundation received an $80,000 gift from John D. Parce to fund the James Robert and Eleanor Ryan Parce Scholarship for Nursing, a tribute established in memory of his parents.

Since its creation in 2020, the scholarship has supported aspiring nurses pursuing their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree at CFK. The latest contribution ensures the scholarship will continue supporting students to achieve their nursing degrees while honoring the Parce family's commitment to education and the Florida Keys community.

The merit- and need-based scholarship awards up to $16,000 to one qualified nursing student over the entire length of the program. While open to all eligible applicants, preference is given to students aspiring to become flight nurses.

"The impact of Mr. Parce's generosity cannot be measured by the dollar amount of his donation. This gift is a catalyst that will positively change lives for individuals and families," said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. "The Parce family's dedication to our CFK community, especially our students, creates a lasting impact that will strengthen healthcare in our community."

Recipients must be enrolled in at least nine credit hours per semester, maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA, complete a FAFSA for the applicable academic year, and meet satisfactory academic progress standards. 

Mr. Parce served as a member of the CFK Foundation Board of Directors from 2021 to 2024, furthering his family's legacy of supporting education in the Florida Keys.

Students can apply for the scholarship at: https://www.cfk.edu/discover/cfk-foundation/scholarship-info/.

For more information about donating to the CFK Foundation to benefit CFK students and programs, contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at 305-809-3214 or foundation@cfk.edu.

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