Student Achievement Awards Programs

Joseph L. Carwise Achievement Award

Each year, standout students in Pinellas County are nominated by educators for the Joseph L. Carwise Achievement Award, honoring their academic excellence. With support from local businesses and community partners, thousands in scholarships are awarded to deserving seniors through the Pinellas Education Foundation. 

Maria Edmonds Hispanic Achievement Awards

This achievement award honors the legacy of Maria Edmonds, a tireless advocate for women, children, and the Hispanic community. A longtime leader at St. Petersburg College and on local civic boards, she left a lasting impact before her passing in 2017. Today, Pinellas businesses continue her mission by awarding scholarships to high-achieving seniors. 

Vryle Davis Achievement Award

This award honors Vyrle Davis, a trailblazing educator who served Pinellas County for 40 years. He began teaching at 16th Street Elementary and Junior High (now John Hopkins Middle School), later becoming assistant principal at Gibbs High School and principal at St. Petersburg High School. In 1986, he became the county’s first African American area superintendent. Today, students in South Pinellas are selected by their school administrators, teachers, or counselors to receive this award in his name.