Keisha Bodden Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Keisha Bodden Scholarship Fund

Introduction / Legacy
Keisha Bodden, a native of Cocoa and Orlando, Florida, passed away from breast cancer on July 31, 2002, at the age of 32. She is survived by three daughters. Keisha earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Crime Prevention from the University of Central Florida, and was an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Pi Psi Chapter. As a community organizer and youth advocate, her career focused on the juvenile justice system and community-based efforts to help young people reach their potential. In honor of her commitment to youth and service, the Keisha Bodden Scholarship Fund supports students pursuing higher education.

Scholarship Award
The Fund will award two (2) academic scholarships of $1,500 each to eligible Central Florida high school seniors. Recipients must enroll as full-time students at an accredited four-year college or university in Florida beginning Fall 2026.

Important Dates
- Complete application package due: May 15, 2026 (incomplete or late submissions will not be considered).
- Scholarship recipients will be notified: June 15, 2026.
- Scholarship payment will be presented during the fall semester of the recipient’s first year of college.

Who May Apply (Eligibility)
- Current seniors enrolled in a Central Florida high school.
- U.S. citizens.
- Students who will be accepted to and attend a Florida four-year accredited college or university as full-time students beginning Fall 2026.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Evidence of extracurricular activities or community volunteer involvement.
- Minimum cumulative academic standing: 83% or B- (equivalent to a 2.75 GPA).

Application Requirements (submit as one complete package)
1. Completed application form.
2. Responses to application questions and required essays.
3. Unofficial or official high school transcript showing cumulative GPA at or above 83% / B- (2.75).
4. Letter(s) of recommendation from a school counselor and/or teacher.
5. Proof of acceptance to a Florida four-year college or university (or documentation that acceptance is pending if available).
6. Documentation supporting demonstrated financial need.
7. Evidence of extracurricular or community volunteer involvement.

Final note: incomplete submissions or packages missing any required items will not be reviewed.

Privacy Notice
By submitting an application to the Keisha Bodden Scholarship Fund, you consent to the terms of our Privacy Policy, which explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. Please read the Privacy Policy carefully. If selected as a recipient, you also agree that the Fund may use your name and image for promotional purposes as described in the policy. Submission of your application constitutes your acceptance of these terms.