2025 Scholarship Recipients

Gabby Duprey

Event Specialist at City of West Palm Beach and a proud Florida State University alumna

With a degree in Recreation, Tourism, and Events, Gabby has already made a powerful impact in community engagement. From organizing University events to now creating experiences that bring her City together, Gabby’s passion runs deep. “Events are my way of bringing people joy and connection—creating something meaningful from behind the scenes.”

What drives her? A mission to make communities stronger through inclusive, memorable, and well-executed events. “I believe in the transformative power of events to educate, entertain, and inspire.” She hopes to grow her leadership in municipal event planning and give back by mentoring the next generation of professionals.

Gabby is eager to expand her network and gain new tools at this year’s conference. “I’m excited to learn from the best in the industry and continue growing as both a creative and strategic leader.”

Scholarships like this one help rising stars like Gabby take the next step in shaping Florida’s future through festivals and events. You can help us keep investing in that future.

Markus Lockhart

Community Events Specialist for the Village of Wellington

Currently pursuing a degree in Public Administration with a minor in Event Management, Markus has already made his mark producing inclusive, community-building experiences. With prior roles in recreation and his current work developing large-scale events, he’s passionate about crafting spaces where “everyone feels like they belong.”

“I saw firsthand how events could transform communities—how they could be joyful, healing, and powerful. That’s what inspired me to join this industry,” Markus shared.

His long-term goal? To become a Director of Community Events, shaping impactful programs across Florida and beyond. With a focus on inclusive programming, public-private partnerships, and innovation, we know he’s just getting started.

“I’m excited to connect with others who share my passion and gain tools to keep elevating the work I do.”

Hear from Markus here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd9B760LnP8

Jena Phillips

Dedicated University of Florida Student

Currently studying Event Management, Jena is focused on building a career in the festival and events industry. Although she’s just getting started, her passion is clear: “My future career goal is to become a skilled event planner who creates memorable and impactful events for all kinds of audiences.”

This scholarship will give Jena the opportunity to attend the FFEA Annual Conference and connect with professionals across Florida who are shaping the future of the industry she aspires to join. She’s eager to absorb new ideas, build relationships, and begin her journey with a strong foundation of knowledge and support.

“As a student, being able to learn from experienced planners and gain real-world insight is an invaluable opportunity.”

Clare Sanshie

Special Events Coordinator for the City of North Port

Clare brings both passion and professionalism to her role, building inclusive community events that uplift and inspire. A graduate of Central Michigan University with a background in recreation and event management, Clare combines creativity, logistics, and heart in everything she does.

“Events are how I connect with the community—bringing people together, sparking joy, and creating memories that last.”

Before joining her city team, Clare planned over 25 campus events at CMU and interned for the City of Sterling Heights, where her love for municipal events truly took off. Now, she’s eager to grow into a leadership role where she can develop large-scale, city-wide celebrations and elevate the field of public service through events.

“This conference is my opportunity to grow as a leader, learn best practices, and meet mentors who’ve been where I want to go.”

Scholarships like Clare’s aren’t just about today—they’re an investment in the future of our industry. With your help, we can continue empowering the next generation of event professionals.