With support from a Manatee Community Foundation scholarship, D’Anthony Peterson is pursuing his dream of becoming a psychiatric nurse.

Some students choose a career by looking outward at opportunities. D’Anthony chose his by looking inward. A graduate of Bayshore High School, he is now working toward a degree at Galen College of Nursing, with plans to graduate in December 2026.

His own struggles as a teenager gave him insight into how powerful good mental health care can be. Rather than distancing himself from those challenges, he’s using them to influence a future where he can meet others in their place of need with empathy and skill.

“No matter where life takes me, I’ll continue to keep going with purpose,” he says. “I want to use every blessing, like this scholarship, to give back and inspire others. I truly appreciate the support and opportunity to keep pushing toward my dreams.”

The scholarship from MCF has lifted some of the financial stress of college and shown him that his community is behind him. Faith also continues to play a central role in his path forward; it’s giving him a kind of steadiness as he balances school and long-term plans.

D’Anthony would encourage other high school seniors to chase their own goals, even when life gets hard. With support from people like MCF’s donors, many students like D’Anthony are not only achieving big dreams but using their success to impact others for good.