Think Big Scholarship Program Surpasses $1.3 Million in Scholarships

From one scholarship recipient in 2020 to 130 students supported this year, Think Big continues to expand opportunities for students pursuing college degrees, technical certifications and skilled trades pathways.

As the 2025-26 academic year concludes, Think Big has now awarded more than $1.3 million in scholarships to over 350 students, reflecting the organization’s growing investment in workforce development and student success. Across Tampa Bay, Greater Washington and New Jersey, this year’s scholarship celebrations highlighted not only financial support, but also the mentorship, career exploration and community partnerships that help students build meaningful futures.

Tampa Bay: 112 Students Honored Across 39 High Schools

Think Big’s largest scholarship celebration took place in Tampa Bay, where 112 students from 39 high schools received scholarships totaling more than $246,000. Students will pursue pathways ranging from technical and trade schools to community colleges and four-year universities.

More than 250 scholarship recipients, families, mentors and community supporters gathered at Feeding Tampa Bay on May 9 to celebrate the graduating class. Click here for the event recap and photos.

The Tampa Bay scholarship selection process also demonstrated the community-wide support behind the program, with more than 500 student applications reviewed by a volunteer committee of 60 community members in partnership with the Hillsborough Education Foundation and Pinellas Education Foundation.

Greater Washington: ‘Beyond the Tassel’ Expands Opportunity

In the Greater Washington region, Think Big partnered with Educate Fairfax and strategic partner, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, to celebrate students during the second annual “Beyond the Tassel” event on May 28.

After launching the program with just two scholarships last year, Think Big expanded its impact in 2026 by awarding six “Think Big Expect More” scholarships to graduating seniors across Fairfax County Public Schools. Click here for the event recap and photos.

New Jersey: Growing Partnerships, Growing Impact

Think Big New Jersey also continued its rapid growth this year through partnerships with five regional Boys & Girls Clubs organizations.

The program awarded more than $18,000 in “Think Big Expect More” scholarships to 12 students for the 2025-26 academic year, an increase from 10 recipients last year. Five of this year’s students are returning scholarship recipients, reflecting Think Big’s ongoing commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journeys. Click here for highlights.

Building Pathways Beyond Graduation

What began with one scholarship recipient six years ago has evolved into a growing national movement focused on helping students pursue meaningful career pathways and long-term success.

Through scholarships, mentorships, internships and workforce connections, Think Big continues to invest in students as they prepare for careers in healthcare, business, technology, skilled trades and countless other industries.

As the organization celebrates more than 130 scholarship recipients in 2026 alone, the momentum behind Think Big’s mission continues to grow – creating opportunity, expanding access and helping students envision futures far beyond graduation.