Name: Angeline Saint Fleur
Hometown: West Palm Beach
University: University of Florida; University of South Florida College of Nursing
University: University of Florida
Major: Nursing
Scholarships: Walter and Adi Blum Scholarship
Fun fact: The first in her family to attend college
Angeline Saint Fleur’s story begins in Gonaives, Haiti — where her parents dreamed of a brighter future for their children in America. As first-generation immigrants, they couldn’t pursue higher education themselves, but imbued their children with a profound respect for learning and the promise it held.
“My parents always instilled the importance of education in me when I was growing up and supported me in all my educational endeavors,” Angeline recalls.
Navigating the complexities of higher education as a first-generation student, Angeline encountered the Community Foundation’s scholarship process nearly a decade ago. While time has softened the details, she remembers the process as a thoughtful one.
“The interview was an opportunity to share my aspirations and goals. I appreciated the care and attention that went into selecting the recipients. Meeting my donors at the banquet and attending financial literacy and study tip sessions were highlights that helped me manage and steward my scholarship effectively.”
The impact of the scholarship on Angeline’s life is one she is extremely grateful for.
“Graduating with my undergraduate degree from the University of Florida without debt was a rare and invaluable accomplishment. I was able to better focus on my classes without feeling like I had to work full time, which otherwise would’ve caused my grades to suffer,” she reflects.
And the relief extended to her family alleviated their financial stress—and prevented them from falling into further debt. This support enabled Angeline to excel academically and professionally, paving the way for her nursing career.
Today, Angeline is a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate at the University of South Florida College of Nursing. Her journey from earning a BSN at the University of Florida in 2018 to working as a registered nurse in cardiac and postpartum care has been marked by deepening insights into the nursing profession.
Her research interests focus on maternal mental health, preeclampsia, and addressing health disparities. Angeline is also dedicated to developing innovative interventions to reduce maternal mortality, particularly among Black women, who face significantly higher risks.
In addition to her research, Angeline aspires to become a professor, driven by a desire to educate and mentor future generations of students.
Grateful for the support that helped shape her path, Angeline has much appreciation for her scholarship donors and the broader Community Foundation network.
“Thank you for seeing the potential in 18-year-old me. I hope I’ve made you proud,” she says.
