FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - Kevin Romero, a recent Broward College graduate, is one of 90 community college students nationwide who received the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship for 2025.

Romero is one of eight students in Florida – and the only one from Broward County – to receive the prestigious scholarship, which allows students to complete their bachelor’s degrees at four-year institutions. According to the Foundation, this year’s cohort is the largest in its 25-year history. The Foundation's mission is to create debt-free pathways to higher education for high-achieving students with financial need.

For Romero, being awarded the scholarship is a “surreal” experience.

“This award isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a reflection of the community that’s lifted me up: my family, friends, mentors, professors, and even loved ones thousands of miles away in El Salvador,” Romero said. “Broward College gave me a second chance to grow, dream bigger, and define a new purpose. I’m grateful beyond words.”

Romero was hard at work on his college career even before reaching Broward College. Thanks to dual enrollment and AP testing, Romero said he graduated from William T. McFatter Technical High School with most of the credits needed for an associate degree. During his time at the College, Romero did a “speedrun” on the rest of his academic requirements while keeping a busy schedule, including being a member of the Robert "Bob" Elmore Honors College and the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

“I took 17 credits in both the fall and spring semesters, worked at my family’s restaurant, got involved on campus, and dedicated time to scholarship applications like this one,” he said.

In addition to funding, transfer scholarship recipients like Romero also receive personalized advising and access to a national network of more than 3,400 Cooke Scholars and Alumni. They also have opportunities to study abroad, undertake internships and receive graduate student support.

Romero said he has been accepted into New York University, and while he originally intended to become a pediatrician, his experiences at Broward College led him to discover a passion for psychology, which will now be his major. His career goal is to work in educational policy and mental health advocacy.

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