As high school graduation approaches, it’s a perfect time to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our seniors. One exceptional student at Lely High School truly stands out, and we are excited to recognize her accomplishments.
Collier County Public Schools is proud to announce that the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has selected Juliana Noreus as one of only 70 graduating high school seniors across the United States to receive the prestigious Cooke College Scholarship. This highly competitive program aims to help students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership, and persistence attend top universities and avoid student debt. The award can be worth up to $55,000 per year for a student working toward a bachelor’s degree at any accredited undergraduate institution in the United States.
“Juliana is an impressive young woman who has earned multiple community scholarships,” said LHS Principal Jennifer Bledsoe. “In addition to excelling in a rigorous academic program, Juliana has made significant contributions to our JROTC program and earned varsity letters in weightlifting. She also served in several leadership roles in various academic clubs and teams here on campus and actively pursued summer learning opportunities at several universities.”
The 2025 Cooke College Scholars come from 29 states plus the District of Columbia and American Samoa. The full list of 2025 Cooke College Scholars, including their high schools and states, can be found here: www.jkcf.org/our-stories/2025-college
scholarship-finalists.
As we celebrate 25 years of work as a Foundation, we are proud to expand our commitment by supporting 70 students this year,” said Seppy Basili, executive director of the Cooke Foundation. “This increase reflects not only the quality of applications we received, but also our response to the growing financial barriers facing talented students with financial need.”
Beyond financial support, Cooke Scholars receive comprehensive academic coaching, graduate school and career advising, opportunities for internships and study abroad, and access to the network of fellow scholars and alumni. Scholars are also eligible to apply for graduate school funding after completing their undergraduate degrees.
Looking ahead, Juliana’s journey will take her to New York City, where she will begin her studies at Columbia University this fall. We wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new
chapter. Congratulations to Juliana and the entire Class of 2025!