Dozens of Immokalee’s brightest students are taking the next exciting step in their educational journeys, empowered by an impressive $3.23 million in scholarships and grants earned through Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps Program.

The 30 graduates of the Tutor Corps Class of 2025 have earned acceptance to some of the nation’s top universities, including St. Johns University, the University of Florida, Northeastern University, and many others.

Since 2004, 100% of Tutor Corps students have graduated high school and been accepted to college, with an outstanding 94% of them going on to earn a college degree.

“This program is about so much more than preparing students for college — it’s about preparing them for life,” said Guadalupe Center President and CEO Dawn Montecalvo. “Tutor Corps opens doors that many of our students once thought were beyond their reach. With continued guidance and support, they’re not only shaping their own futures — they’re shaping the future of our community.”

Tutor Corps is a unique and comprehensive college-preparatory program that combines academic readiness, mentorship, life skills development, and career exploration. Students continue to receive support throughout their college years, helping them pursue their degrees with minimal debt and maximum opportunity.

As part of the program, Tutor Corps students work as paid tutors in Guadalupe Center’s After-school Program for grades K-2. In doing so, they earn income to support their college expenses, while also serving as role models and mentors for younger students — including many of their own siblings.

“Tutoring taught me the importance of communication, attendance, and teamwork. Guiding young students and witnessing their progress was such a rewarding experience. I’m so thankful for this win-win situation, where I taught them, and they taught me,” said Faustina Andres Francisco, who served as class speaker during the Tutor Corps Class of 2025 commencement ceremony on April 25 at Twin Eagles Country Club.

The graduates of the Tutor Corps Class of 2025 are celebrating impressive achievements, including:
• Guadalupe Center Scholarship Funding: $403,000
• Total Scholarships and Grants: $3.23 million
• Average GPA: 4.3
• 100% High School Graduation Rate

• 18 Students Earning 259 College Credits
• 30 First-Generation College Students
• 9 are in the top 20 of their class

This fall, these remarkable graduates will pursue degrees in fields such as architecture, biology, business, criminology, health science, engineering, marketing, nursing, and social work. Some will attend schools close to home, including FGCU, Florida SouthWestern State College, Florida State University, and the University of South Florida. Others will venture to private institutions such as Northeastern University and out-of-state colleges partnered with Guadalupe Center, including Arcadia University, North Central College, and Saint John’s University.