This resolution honors the memory of Jereima "Jeri" Bustamante and establishes a memorial scholarship for Miami Beach Senior High School graduates.
Rick Scott
Senator
FL
This resolution formally honors the memory of Jereima "Jeri" Bustamante on the seventh anniversary of her passing. It recognizes her inspiring life, from her move to Miami to her career in public service. Furthermore, the resolution establishes the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship to support graduates of Miami Beach Senior High School in pursuing higher education.
Resolution Establishes Memorial Scholarship for Miami Beach High Grads, Honoring Jeri Bustamante’s Legacy
This resolution is a formal tribute honoring the life and memory of Jereima "Jeri" Bustamante, who passed away in 2017. It details her path, which included moving from Panama, graduating from Miami Beach Senior High, and earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Florida International University—all while working, highlighting a serious work ethic.
The American Dream, Paid Forward
Beyond remembering her career, which included working at a Miami TV station and serving as press secretary for Governor Rick Scott, the resolution's main action is establishing the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship. This isn't just a nice gesture; it’s a concrete investment in the future of students from her alma mater. The scholarship is specifically designed to help graduates from Miami Beach Senior High School pursue their college education, turning a personal legacy into a tangible benefit for the next generation.
What This Means for Students
For a student juggling college applications and the inevitable financial stress that comes with higher education, this scholarship provides real, necessary support. It’s a direct recognition of the value of hard work and perseverance, embodied by Bustamante's own journey. The resolution frames her life as an example that the American Dream is still achievable through dedication, and now, it’s providing a financial boost to help others start their own journey. While the resolution itself doesn't specify the scholarship's dollar amount or frequency, the establishment of the fund ensures that a new resource is now available to help high school graduates afford that crucial next step.
A Formal Recognition of Impact
Essentially, the Senate is taking time to formally honor a life that exemplified hard work and success, ensuring her memory lives on through educational opportunity. By encouraging scholarship recipients to keep her legacy alive, the resolution ties academic achievement directly to the values of community and determination. This is a straightforward, beneficial move that creates a new financial aid pathway for Miami Beach High students, which is always a win for busy families trying to plan for college costs.