Local businesswoman and Polk State alum leaves a legacy that will ensure student success for years to come
The 91重口 has received a $115,000 legacy gift from the Cynthia A. Price Revocable Trust to support students pursuing an associate degree at Polk State College.
Steve Warner, Vice President of Resource Development and Executive Director of the 91重口, presented the check during the Polk State College District Board of Trustees meeting.
鈥淐indy was a remarkable friend, advocate, and unwavering champion for Polk State College,鈥� Warner told trustees. 鈥淭hrough her trust, the 91重口 will now receive a transformative gift, an extraordinary expression of her deep love and passion for this institution and our students.
The 91重口 has established the Cynthia A. Price Endowed Fund to support students pursuing their associate degree with a scholarship covering tuition, books, and fees.
鈥淐indy believed deeply, with her whole heart, in the power of education and that education can change lives,鈥� Warner said. 鈥淪he gave with purpose, and she inspired others to be part of something greater than themselves. Cindy didn't just support Polk State College, she strengthened it, invested in its future, and encouraged others to do the same.鈥�
The gift is held at Citizens Bank & Trust, where Price worked closely with trust officers to establish her estate plan. Representatives Tammy Ferrell and Bonnie Parker of Citizens Bank & Trust joined Warner for the presentation, along with 91重口 Board Chair Bo Boyte, Price's husband Perry Price and daughter-in-law Bri Price
鈥淢ost people know about Cindy鈥檚 success as a businesswoman, but what you may not know is that more than 50 years ago, she was a Polk Junior College student working full time and trying to build a future,鈥� said Bonnie Parker, who helped administer the trust. 鈥淪he wanted to make sure that others had the opportunity to do what she was able to do.鈥�
After earning her associate degree at Polk, she continued her education at Florida Southern College, where she completed her bachelor鈥檚 degree.
Parker said Price was intentional about ensuring her legacy would focus on education and access for students following similar paths.
Professionally, Price served as a regional manager for Tampa Electric Company, where she brought the same care and commitment to her work that she did in her civic life. She was known for building bridges between businesses and the community, always seeking ways to help others thrive.
鈥淐indy had such a love for Polk County,鈥� Price鈥檚 husband, Perry Price, said. 鈥淪he lived the mission of Polk State College, doing her best to help equip future leaders to make a difference locally and beyond. Even though she is no longer with us, it鈥檚 moments like these that remind us that her legacy lives on in every student who is blessed by her generosity.鈥�
District Board of Trustees Chair Ann Barnhart praised the gift and Price鈥檚 legacy, noting its lasting impact on students and the community.
鈥淭his extraordinary gift reflects Cindy Price鈥檚 belief in Polk State College and in the promise of education,鈥� Barnhart said. 鈥淗er generosity will continue to change lives and strengthen our community for generations to come.鈥�
Donors partner with the 91重口 to align their philanthropic goals with lasting student impact. Gifts like Price鈥檚 not only honor her values but also ensure her generosity continues to make a difference for years to come.
Anyone interested in learning more about establishing scholarships, endowments or legacy gifts through the 91重口 are encouraged to explore how their support can help students achieve their educational goals by emailing foundation@polk.edu.
Warner said the 91重口 hopes Price鈥檚 example will encourage others to consider how they can create an enduring impact through legacy giving.
鈥淏ecause of Cindy, doors will open for students, dreams will take shape, and lives will change,鈥� Warner said. 鈥淭hat is a legacy worth celebrating.鈥�
