For the Love of Cats Announces New FGCU Scholarship Winner

Florida Gulf Coast University has announced Maraiza Oliver as the scholarship winner of the For the Love of Cats Veterinary Scholarship Program. The goal of the scholarship program from For the Love of Cats is to create more interest in a career in veterinary medicine among FGCU students enrolled in the biology curriculum. Maraiza is currently a second-year student at FGCU, with a love for animals and working towards her degree in biology. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, she plans to continue her education by attending veterinary school or graduate school for physical therapy. Her goal is to one day become an animal physical therapist, where she can help animals recover from surgeries.

“This scholarship will impact me greatly because this is the most significant scholarship I have ever been awarded so far throughout my college career. I am so grateful because I will no longer need to pull out of my student loans. This scholarship will allow me to stay focused on my schoolwork and volunteering all year without worrying about my finances. I can be more involved at the animal shelter I volunteer at and hopefully be able to volunteer at an animal clinic.”

For the Love of Cats is honored to partner with Florida Gulf Coast University in our scholarship program for their biology students. Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including leadership, merit, and academic achievement. The program is designed to mentor students interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine with the anticipation that they will bring their skills back home to the needs of Southwest Florida. “Our goal is to get FGCU students excited about veterinary career opportunities in SW Florida and help bring attention to the needs of the animal welfare community. The veterinary community of Southwest Florida is struggling with staffing requirements. This greatly affects their overall capacity and ability to contribute to the animal welfare of Southwest Florida. We are super excited about our partnership with FGCU and our ability to help mentor the students interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.” Jan Rich, Founder, For the Love of Cats.

For the Love of Cats Scholarship Program provides partnerships with corporate and local businesses. These leaders are joining us to impact our county's future health and animal welfare. Our program is generously funded by Bobbie Confer of Remax Realty on Marco Island, Dr. Jon Strohmeyer, the Facial Plastic Surgery Center, and Dr. Cindy Strohmeyer, Dermatology Specialists of Naples.