Holly Gray named Director of Student Support at Education Foundation of Sarasota County

Holly E. Gray has been named director of student support at the Education Foundation of Sarasota County (EFSC).

In her new role, Gray is responsible for developing a dynamic volunteer-student mentoring program to ensure students get “to and through” their postsecondary pursuits.

Gray’s experience and skills complement the EFSC College, Career and Life Readiness Initiative and substantially enhance the STRIVE awards program, which provides generous cash awards to high school students who have overcome significant life challenges and plan to enroll at a postsecondary institution, ranging from technical schools to four-year universities and colleges.     

Gray is a solutions-driven counseling professional and educator with broad qualifications in advising and mentoring. She earned her master’s degree in counselor education and her bachelor’s in psychology and education, both from Rhode Island College. 

Previously, Gray was a college success coach and academic advisor at Take Stock in Children of Manatee County.  She has worked in counseling and advising at several schools and colleges, including the American School of Barcelona, Spain; an Oregon college preparatory school; and public schools in Rhode Island.  

Gray holds several specialized training certificates and is committed to supporting and advocating for students who are struggling, disabled, and financially, culturally and linguistically diverse.

“We are excited that Holly is bringing her student-centered focus and skills, experience and passion to join the Education Foundation of Sarasota County as we continue strengthening our programs to help students succeed in college, career and life,” said Jennifer Vigne, EFSC president.