Kassidy Hernandez Earns Clare Philips Martin Scholarship at VSU

Kassidy Hernandez of Miami, Florida, is the recipient of Valdosta State University’s 2024-2025 Clare Philips Martin Scholarship. She is pictured with Dr. Sheri Noviello, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Richard A. Carvajal, president of VSU.

VALDOSTA — Kassidy Hernandez of Miami, Florida, is the recipient of Valdosta State University’s 2024-2025 Clare Philips Martin Scholarship.

Named for the wife of the late Dr. Sidney Walter Martin, who served as VSU’s fifth president from 1966 to 1978, the Clare Philips Martin Scholarship is presented to a student with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 who is active in both on- and off-campus activities and organizations and has earned a total of 60 academic credit hours or more.

“Winning this award is a blessing because I will be able to continue my education at Valdosta State,” she said. “I was awarded Bright Futures in Florida, but unfortunately, I couldn’t use that award because it’s only eligible for universities in Florida. This scholarship will assist with covering my tuition for the next academic school year and diminish the financial burden. I’m extremely grateful to be receiving this award because I know many students applied, as this scholarship is competitive. Being acknowledged for my hard work in the classroom is deeply rewarding and encourages me to continue to stay motivated and committed to excel in my classes.”

Hernandez is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Applied Economics, a Minor in Applied Mathematics, and a Certificate in Data Science. She anticipates graduating in May 2026. She is spending the summer as an intern in Miami, as she continues to gain experience in the business industry and explore career opportunities available to her after she earns her VSU degrees.

“I’m thankful every day for my amazing support system,” she shared. “Without my family and friends by my side I would not be where I am today. I would like to thank my parents, Victor O. Hernandez and Wendy Hernandez. They have always loved me and been my No. 1 fans. They have done the seven-hour drive many times to visit me and come to all my football games during the season to watch me perform with the VSU Red Hots. They motivate me when I’m feeling down, and being able to talk to them about anything is comforting. My parents have taught me countless lessons in life to help me grow and influence me to achieve my dreams. I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am today without their amazing support.

“I would also like to thank my brother, Victor M. Hernandez, for being my role model. He has shown me the importance of working hard to be successful, and also the importance of having fun and letting loose. My brother and I are completely opposite, but I’ve learned many values from him, and our bond is unmatched. I would also like to thank my boyfriend, Henry Garces, for encouraging me when I’m stressed with my classes and being the light at the end of the tunnel. Henry has shown me the value of trusting myself, being confident, and has helped with removing my self-doubt. I can always rely on him, and no matter the distance, I know he will always answer my call and be there for me.

“Lastly, I would like to thank my VSU besties, Jala Turner and Keionna Watkins. These girls were my first friends at VSU, and we created a bond that has made us inseparable. I can always talk to my girls about anything, and I’m thankful to have them by my side throughout my college journey. Without these individuals I wouldn’t be able to conquer all my challenges. I’m extremely thankful and blessed that I know I can count on my support system through thick and thin.”