$1M gift creates Schilling STEM Scholarship to support future STEM leaders

A transformational $1 million gift from Dr. Paul Schilling, radiation oncologist and longtime University of North Florida supporter, is helping UNF attract and retain promising science, technology, engineering and math students through the creation of the Schilling STEM Scholarship.

The new scholarship represents a significant investment in the future STEM workforce by providing financial support to high-achieving students who aspire to make an impact in STEM fields critical to innovation and scientific discovery.

"Science, technology, engineering and math are the keys to the future of our nation, and of humanity," said Schilling. "STEM scholarships decrease financial burden, opening a horizon of support and focused study."

Designed to recruit and support exceptional STEM students, the scholarship welcomed its inaugural cohort of 23 incoming freshmen this fall. Students are eligible to receive up to $5,000 per academic year, with awards renewable for up to four years, providing sustained support through their undergraduate education.

This impressive first class of the Schilling STEM Scholars has already demonstrated remarkable academic achievement. The cohort entered UNF with an average GPA of 4.38, average SAT scores of 1264 and average ACT score of 26. By comparison, the overall incoming fall class has an average GPA of 3.94, SAT score of 1131, and ACT score of 22.

The University anticipates a similar, high-achieving second cohort starting in Fall 2027.

As one of the University's few scholarships dedicated specifically to STEM majors, it reflects Schilling's commitment to creating lasting, strategic impact while helping UNF unlock the potential of future STEM leaders.

"I have always dreamed of becoming a pediatrician, and this scholarship is making that dream come true," said recipient Yahilyn Rodriguez, who is a freshman studying biomedical sciences and the first in her family to attend college.

The Schilling STEM Scholarship is a powerful incentive for high-achieving STEM students who are considering multiple universities and will enable UNF to compete more effectively for exceptional students.

"The United States will need one million more new STEM graduates in four years," Schilling said. "It is my hope and expectation that a scholarship of this magnitude may help to bridge this gap locally."