In 2002, alumni and avid fishermen Jose Perez de Corcho ’93 and Jose Bofill ’90 were looking for a way to give back. They put their heads together and with the support of Totalbank, the FIU Scholarship Fishing Tournament & Dock Party was born. What began as a small tournament between friends has since grown, raising over $140,000 for student scholarships in the process.

These scholarships allow students like Biology major Vanessa Barrios to pursue their education at FIU. The sophomore told us, “This financial help is contributing greatly to my academic pursuits. It is because of programs like this that I am able to continue learning and staying involved at FIU.” Outside of class, Vanessa is part of the Golden Dazzlers, Student Government Association and Peer Led Team Learning, a group that provides biology tutoring for students. She has also volunteered with Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and with the Special Olympics. Her goal is to become a neurologist and treat those affected with learning disabilities like autism.

Lorenzo Cosio Jr., committee member and long-time supporter of the tournament, stresses the importance of the tournament and how it allows students to dream big. “Being a father of two teenage daughters, I am learning firsthand how important it is to give back and pay it forward. FIU provides opportunity for our young people to dream big and reach for the stars!  The FIU Tournament provides much needed financial help to some of the brightest stars in our community,” says Cosio, who also works for the sponsoring company Solo Printing. Through events like the FIU Scholarship Fishing Tournament & Dock Party, alumni and friends of the University can help truly make a difference.