By Marcus Fernandez
For more than 20 years, Manny and Aggie Fernandez of Kinney, Fernandez & Boire, P.A. have quietly given back to local students with the Villa Madonna School’s Student of Merit Award. The award was designed to recognize an eighth-grade student that exhibits a solid work ethic, perseverance and positive outlook. The award recipient can then apply the scholarship towards tuition at the Catholic high school of his or her choice in the Tampa Bay area.
“For us, it was important to create an award that went beyond those based purely on academic performance. We wanted something that reinforced ideals that we hold dear – determination, perseverance and strength of character are all hallmarks of the recipients of this award,” said Manny Fernandez. “We look forward to watching the continued growth of these Tampa Bay students, and the impact they will have in our community.”
It’s with great pride that we at Kinney, Fernandez & Boire share this year’s award winner, Miss Danielis Baez. Danielis was recognized by her teachers for consistent effort in her studies, her friendly disposition with other students, and a foundation steeped in the academic and spiritual foundation instilled at Villa Madonna School in Tampa.
Perhaps most telling was a single situation from the school year that beautifully illustrated this young lady’s personality. In the midst of competition at one of the school’s track meets, Danielis saw a student from another school struggling. Despite multiple attempts, the competitor couldn’t bring herself to complete her high jump attempt. Witnessing her troubles, Danielis went to the student to encourage her to put aside her concerns and simply trust in God. It is that faith foundation and belief in always trying your hardest that exemplifies the Student of Merit Award.
We are grateful for the opportunity to reward young students like Danielis. We wish her the best as she begins high school this fall and congratulate her on a well-deserved scholarship award.
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The law firm of Kinney, Fernandez & Boire believes that the strength of a community is rooted in its youth. That’s why the vision statement of our Community Action Program is to enrich the lives of children through charitable giving and employee volunteerism aimed at supporting youth-focused nonprofits in Tampa Bay. Learn more about our philanthropic involvement by reading our post on the KFB Law Community Action Program.
