Manatee County's Top STEM Students Honored as 2025 Sunshine State Scholars

Manatee County’s brightest young minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) have been recognized as 2025 Sunshine State Scholars. The prestigious program, which selects top 11th-grade students from school districts across Florida, offers an opportunity to connect with industry leaders and higher education institutions within the state.

Each year, scholars and their families travel to Orlando, where they network with Florida’s leading STEM employers and representatives from the state’s College and University System. The program aims to showcase Florida’s commitment to fostering innovation and retaining talented students in STEM fields.

For 2025, Manatee County’s selected scholars are Y (Tina) Dang of Braden River High School and Melisha Guillen-Arana of Southeast High School. Julia Vendramini of Lakewood Ranch High School is an alternate for the county.

These students were chosen for their outstanding academic achievements, dedication to STEM disciplines, and potential to contribute to Florida’s growing STEM workforce. Their participation in the Sunshine State Scholars program not only highlights their individual success but also underscores the district’s commitment to cultivating future innovators and problem-solvers.

The program serves as a critical platform for students to explore career pathways, learn from industry experts, and establish valuable connections that may influence their future educational and professional endeavors.