Kaitlyn Riley to receive scholarship from Buc’s superfan Bucified on Bloom (2024)

TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – Ms. Kaitlyn “Katy” Riley 21, the Bucified & OLE Is Alive 2024 Back To The Future Final Phase 1 Scholarship Recipient, will be honored live on Bloom Monday July 1. This event marks the conclusion of the Back To The Future Phase One of the program, an initiative close to the heart of Albert Owens, the driving force behind the mission. (OLE is an acronym for Operation Legacy Emma Lee)

The Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission, which began on January 1, 2004, after the loss of Albert Owens’ mother, Emma Lee, has been awarding scholarships to deserving students for 20 years. Katy will become the 19th recipient of this scholarship, which has been pivotal in helping young individuals pursue their educational dreams.

Katy’s involvement with the Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission began at the tender age of 7 when she helped create music for the program in 2010. She stands out as the first student among the 19 scholarship recipients to write a 1000-word essay on the Bucified acronym, showcasing her commitment and intelligence. Katy’s academic journey is remarkable, as she has been part of the program from elementary school through to her current studies at Hillsborough Community College (HCC).

Highly recommended for the scholarship by her Business Instructor at HCC, Dr. Danielle Clark, Katy has consistently shown her dedication to the mission. She supported Albert Owens, the founder of Bucified & OLE Is Alive, during his induction into the Professional Football’s Ultimate Fans Association at the NFL Hall of Fame in 2017. Katy’s continued involvement includes plans to return to the recording studio for a remake of the Bucified & OLE Is Alive music.

The scholarship program has always aimed to honor the legacy of Emma Lee by supporting young students who embody the values of dedication, hard work, and community spirit. Katy’s journey and achievements make her a shining example of these values, and her recognition is a testament to her unwavering commitment.

The scholarship presentation will be made even more special by the surprise appearance of Dexter Jackson, the Bucs Super Bowl Player #34, who will present the scholarship check to Katy alongside Bucified Bert. This event also commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission. You can watch the special moment at 2 p.m on Wednesday July 3.

Katy’s Journey

Early Involvement

Katy’s journey with the Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission began when she was just 7 years old. Her parents, coworkers of Albert Owens, were inspired by his message and got involved with the mission. It was important for them to model community involvement to Katy. “Growing up, I had followed the work Bucified, aka Albert Owens, had done in our community. I was inspired and still am inspired by the work he has done,” Katy shared. Her first significant involvement came when she participated in the recording of the BUCIFIED OLE Is Alive music. “It was a huge deal to me,” she recalled.

Essay on the Bucified Acronym

Katy’s dedication to the mission is evident in the 1000-word essay she wrote about the Bucified acronym. “I’ve heard the BUCIFIED acronym my entire life. My understanding has grown as I have grown. The acronym is a way to make sure you are on the right path,” Katy explained. She recounted a personal experience where adhering to the values of the acronym helped her make tough but rewarding decisions. “For example, I realized that classmates who I thought were my friends were getting in trouble and were only going to bring me down with them. They were not ‘Friendly Individuals.’ I made the choice to step away from the friendship even if it meant I would be lonely. Eventually, I made more friends who are, in fact, ‘Friendly Individuals.’ Had I not done that, I would have never made friends with people who will stay up all night studying with you and cheering you on.”

Educational Journey

The Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission has significantly influenced Katy’s educational journey and personal growth. “BUCIFIED has been cheering me on all the way from the days of learning my colors and ABCs,” she said. Despite struggling with ADHD and being teased for taking longer to learn material, Katy found encouragement and support in Bucified’s belief in her abilities. “If it hadn’t been for the encouragement from Bucified, I might have believed the kids who teased me and never met my true academic potential,” she admitted. This support helped her build confidence and resilience.

Role Models and Mentors

Albert Owens, known as Bucified, has been a significant mentor and role model for Katy. “He taught me that my dreams are possible if I put in the work. He encouraged me to pursue my dreams and never stop learning,” Katy said. This mentorship has been pivotal in shaping her ambitions and outlook on life.

Future Aspirations

Katy’s future goals include working in marketing. She plans to transfer from HCC to complete her bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida (USF). “The BUCIFIED Dreakseeker 2024 scholarship will help pay for my fall semester this year,” she noted. Her long-term goal is to use her skills to advance her career and give back by marketing the Bucified & OLE Is Alive mission.

Community and Support

Being part of the Bucified & OLE Is Alive community is a source of great pride for Katy. “It is an honor to be part of this community. Albert Owens’ support has shown me the importance of giving back,” she emphasized. This sense of community and the support she has received have profoundly shaped her outlook on life and her desire to contribute positively to society.

Balancing Act

Balancing academic commitments with involvement in community initiatives like Bucified & OLE Is Alive can be challenging, but Katy finds it worthwhile. “Bucified encourages doing well academically and is willing to work with you to help find a balance. Working with BUCIFIED OLE is Alive encourages me to never stop learning,” she explained.

Inspirational Message

Katy’s message to other young students is simple yet powerful: “Keep going. Don’t stop. Never give up.” Her journey is a testament to the impact of dedication, support, and perseverance.

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