Community
Buona Fortuna Lodge #2835 of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America recognized four scholarship recipients during its June 11 General Membership Meeting in Pensacola, marking another milestone in what has become one of the organization’s most enduring commitments to the community.
- As the lodge celebrates its 20th anniversary year, members have awarded more than $80,000 in scholarships to deserving students over its history. This year’s class of recipients spans Pensacola, Gulf Breeze, and Ocean Springs, Miss., with plans to study everything from neuroscience to nursing to marketing to information systems.
Each recipient also received the Dante Medal—one of the most meaningful symbols of educational achievement within the order, named in honor of Dante Alighieri and recognizing excellence in scholarship, leadership, service and pride in Italian heritage.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Isabel Teresa Puno received the Buona Fortuna Lodge Scholarship. A graduate of the Pensacola High School International Baccalaureate Program, she has been accepted to Florida State University, Stetson University, and the University of West Florida, where she plans to study Neuroscience.
Talon Burdett received the La Famiglia Scholarship. A graduate of Ocean Springs High School, Talon plans to attend the University of Mississippi to major in Nursing with a minor in Psychology. He was recognized in absentia for his academic achievement, community service, and commitment to a career in healthcare.
Francesca Messina received the Russo Family Scholarship. Also a graduate of the Pensacola High School International Baccalaureate Program, Francesca was born in Rome, Italy, and plans to attend the University of West Florida to major in Marketing. Her journey of adapting to a new country while excelling academically and in leadership reflects the values the lodge works to honor.
Grace Wippler-Shaw received the inaugural Dinelli Family Women in STEM Scholarship. A Gulf Breeze High School graduate, Grace is already enrolled at the University of Florida pursuing a degree in Information Systems. The new scholarship was established to encourage young women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
“Our scholarship program represents one of the most meaningful investments we make in the future of our community. Each of these students has demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving others.”
—Scholarship Committee Chairman Joe DelSignore
Twenty Years of Service
Lodge President Ginny Barberi noted the significance of the milestone year: “As Buona Fortuna Lodge celebrates its twentieth year, it is especially rewarding to recognize these outstanding young people. Their accomplishments reflect the values of hard work, family, education, and community service that our Lodge strives to promote.”
Buona Fortuna Lodge #2835 is dedicated to preserving Italian heritage, supporting charitable causes, and fostering community service throughout Northwest Florida. For more information or to learn about membership, visit BuonaFortunaLodge.org or follow the lodge on Facebook.
