Florida Commissioner of Education Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas and the State Board of Education recognized Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) student Deznie Quintanar at the State Board of Education meeting on Sept. 24, at NWFSC’s Fort Walton Beach Campus. Additionally, the Florida College System (FCS) Foundation presented a check to the Northwest Florida State College Foundation following Deznie’s recognition.
Deznie, a bachelor’s student in the elementary education program, was a proud recipient of the Helios Scholarship, granted to NWFSC by the Florida College System Foundation. Her story is one of triumph, resilience, and courage.
“I chose elementary education as my major because, as far back as I can remember, I would always play school with my younger siblings and friends,” said Quintanar. “I have always had a passion for teaching others and inspiring them to believe they can accomplish anything they put their mind to.”
A few weeks ago, the Department of Education requested a list of students who had received scholarships made possible by the FCS Foundation. From that list, shared by NWFSC Foundation Executive Director Chris Stowers, Deznie was selected to be honored. Upon hearing the news, NWFSC Director of Teacher Education Brittany Wyatt beamed with pride for Deznie.
“We are so proud of Deznie and the honor she received from Commissioner Kamoutsas and the State Board of Education,” said Wyatt. “Deznie’s story is one of true strength, and perseverance. She represents the very best of our teacher education program. Her passion for teaching and inspiring the next generation is exactly what reflects the heart of what we do, here at NWFSC. Watching her grow through this program has been such a joy! She is not only building a bright future for herself, and her children, but also paving the way to impact countless students’ lives. Today’s recognition is more than well deserved, and we could not be prouder of her!”
At the State Board of Education meeting, Deznie had the opportunity to meet Florida Department of Education (FDOE) Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, FDOE Senior Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell, FDOE College System Chancellor Kathy Hebda, UWF President Manny Diaz, Walton County Schools Superintendent Russell Hughes, NWFSC President Mel Ponder, and NWFSC Foundation Director Chris Stowers, among other dignitaries.
“We are incredibly proud of Deznie Quintanar and all that she has accomplished in her life to bring her here today,” said NWFSC President Mel Ponder. “As a student in our elementary education program, she exemplifies resilience, dedication, and a passion for teaching. It is an honor to recognize her achievements and celebrate the bright future she is building here at Northwest Florida State College.”
Driven by her lifelong passion for teaching, Deznie has faced and risen above challenges such as family instability, relocating to a new state during middle school, and becoming a young mother in her senior year of high school. These experiences taught her resilience, independence, and perseverance, fueling her commitment to a better future for her child.
“I want to be a role model for my child, showing that no matter how hard life gets, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve your goals,” said Deznie. “My hardships shaped me, but they inspire me to never give up and to use my story to make a difference in the lives of others."
An active member of the PEA Club and her church, Deznie has completed over 123 field experience hours in local schools, including the Emerald Coast Autism Center. She plans to inspire the next generation as an elementary school teacher while continuing her education toward a master’s degree.
