Polk State College Foundation

We Help Students Achieve Their Goals

Working together with individuals, organizations, and businesses in our community, we are able to help many students achieve their academic goals. Read More

Faces of Change: Meet people who make a significant difference at Polk State, and those whose lives were positively impacted by the power of philanthropy.

Soaring to Success At an early age, Ron Garl experienced the spine-tingling thrill of propelling golf balls into the air and watching them soar against a bright blue sky to exhilarating heights. Later he discovered the joy of creating amazing new landscapes for others who shared his obsession. Learn how he epitomized the American Dream by taking a lifelong passion and, with the help of a Polk State College education, surged it to the pinnacle of success. Fulfilling Her Dream “Across the Pond” Amanda Burton-Coleman has big dreams. She walks the tightrope of single motherhood, work and classes, with the love of her family far away, unable to catch her if she falls. But her passion for creating a better life for her child and for children in her community keeps her determined, forging ahead with a positive spirit that can’t be stopped. Learn how this intrepid mom with the incredible can-do attitude is fulfilling her destiny, and how the generosity of others makes her load feel a little lighter. Intertwining Lives With her passion for service, Cindy Hartley Ross creates a beautiful and meaningful tapestry by weaving together the lives of generous givers with those in need. Learn about her unparalleled leadership and devotion to uplifting Polk State College and the community.