Inspiring the Next Generation

Through scholarships, history programs and educational opportunities, the Pensacola Heritage Foundation encourages young people to discover the history of the place they call home.

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Scholarship Essay Contest

The 2026 Scholarship Essay Contest is now open. The deadline to enter is Friday, March 20, 2026.

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Download the Sponsorship Information Packet

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Each year, the Pensacola Heritage Foundation awards two $1,500 scholarships to college-bound high school seniors through its annual Scholarship Essay Contest. The contest is open to students in Escambia County Public Schools and Santa Rosa County Schools and encourages young people to explore the history that has shaped our community.

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In 2025, students responded to the question: “What impact did the establishment of the Pensacola Navy Yard in 1826 have on the growth of Northwest Florida?”

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The 2025 scholarship recipients were Carlyn Henley of J.M. Tate High School and Paul Ryan Shave of Gulf Breeze High School.

Carlyn planned to attend either the University of South Alabama or the University of West Florida to study nursing. She was active in volleyball, Beta Club, flag football, dance and Goalie Girls.

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Paul Ryan planned to attend the University of West Florida to study computer science. He was involved in Key Club, Ocean Hour, the Teen Age Volunteer (TAV) Program at Gulf Breeze Hospital and Autocross.

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Their scholarships were presented during their respective schools’ awards nights. The Pensacola Heritage Foundation wishes both recipients continued success in their education.

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2024 History Fair

The Escambia County History Fair was held Feb. 4, 2024. Pensacola Heritage Foundation member Jim Gulley attended and helped judge submissions from students throughout Escambia County.

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The two students selected by the Pensacola Heritage Foundation, Sarah Tanveer and Ava Prince, each received a $100 award from the Foundation at the Feb. 11 ceremony.