The Florida Lottery’s Bright Futures Initiative Tour Continues Around the State

TALLAHASSEE, Florida (May 2, 2024) — Today, Florida Lottery (Lottery) Secretary John F. Davis and Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr., visited Hialeah Senior High School on their statewide tour, actively connecting with students as part of the “Keep Florida’s Future Bright” initiative, aimed at raising awareness about the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. So far, through these efforts, Davis and Diaz have reached nearly 1,800 high school students. “Keep Florida’s Future Bright” aims to increase scholarship applications and awards.

Established by the Florida Legislature in 1997, the Bright Futures Scholarship Program – primarily funded by the Lottery – allows students to pursue postsecondary education at Florida universities, community colleges, and vocational schools, as well as receive a trade certification. To date, more than $8 billion has been used to fund Bright Futures, which has enabled almost one million students to achieve their dreams of pursuing higher education.

“Education isn’t just about classes and grades—it’s about opening doors to futures filled with possibilities,” said John F. Davis, Secretary of the Florida Lottery. “That’s why we’re thrilled to team up with the Florida Department of Education for the ‘Keep Florida’s Future Bright’ initiative. Together, we want to make sure every student knows they have a shot at a future that shines as bright as they do.”

“Today’s event at Hialeah Senior High School was an incredible opportunity to inspire and empower our young students,” said Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. “By emphasizing the importance of hard work and highlighting the transformative potential of our scholarship program, we hope to ignite a passion for academic achievement and lifelong learning. It was truly heartwarming to see students actively engaging with our staff, eager to learn more and take advantage of the resources available to them.”

As part of the initiative, a centralized portal at www.FloridaBrightFutures.gov provides essential resources for students, parents, guardians, and educators. This one-stop shop answers frequently asked questions, and offers checklists, application support, test preparation resources, and more.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA LOTTERY

The Florida Lottery is responsible for generating more than $46 billion for education and sending more than 983,000 students to college through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida’s economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,500 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid more than $94.2 billion in prizes and made more than 4,000 people millionaires. For more information, please visit www.floridalottery.com.

SOURCE: The Florida Lottery.