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Fort Walton Beach’s Reese Armstrong named Okaloosa’s 2024-2025 Sunshine State Scholar

The Sunshine State Scholars program celebrates Florida's top 11th-grade STEM students through a rigorous selection process examining academic achievement and community involvement.

Jared Williams

Fort Walton Beach High School junior Reese Armstrong has been selected as Okaloosa County School District’s 2024-2025 Sunshine State Scholar, joining more than 100 of Florida’s highest-achieving 11th-grade STEM students.

Armstrong, who maintains a 4.59 GPA, plans to pursue a career in medicine, specializing in either oncology or pediatrics.

“The Okaloosa County School District is incredibly proud of Reese Armstrong’s accomplishments and her well-deserved recognition as a Sunshine State Scholar,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers.

Armstrong has served as tennis team captain and band section leader since her sophomore year. She participates in varsity tennis, golf, and Symphonic Band, earning a spot in the All-County Honors Band.

Her community involvement includes membership in the school’s Hope Squad, which focuses on mental health awareness, and the National Honor Society. She has also spent five years with the National League of Junior Cotillions, where she mentors younger students.

The Sunshine State Scholars program evaluates students based on academic achievements, STEM career commitment, and community contributions. Applicants must submit an essay about their STEM career goals, letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and a resume.

Armstrong will join fellow scholars in Orlando this June for a two-day event, connecting with STEM employers and Florida’s top colleges and universities.

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