Ascendant Sponsors 2025 LAAIA Scholarship

Celebrating Scholarship Recipients from USF’s School of Risk Management and Insurance

Ascendant is proud to sponsor the 2025 LAAIA Scholarship, supporting outstanding college students pursuing careers in insurance. This year, through a partnership with the University of South Florida (USF) School of Risk Management and Insurance, the program engages students and prepares the next generation of professionals for careers in property, casualty, life, and health insurance.

This year’s scholarship recipients are four exceptional USF undergraduate students: Jayda Ramos, Javier Cassis, Tushar Shivdasani, and Michael Miller. We had the pleasure of meeting them at the 2025 LAAIA Trade Show and Convention, where each student demonstrated genuine enthusiasm for a future in insurance.

“Receiving the LAAIA scholarship means more to me than just financial support - it's a powerful reminder that my hard work, dreams, and potential are seen and valued. This opportunity not only addresses the financial challenges of pursuing my education, but it also motivates me to keep striving toward a future where I can make a meaningful impact in my community and this industry. I'm deeply grateful for LAAIA's belief in me, and I hope to one day pay it forward by helping others the way this organization has helped me,” states scholarship recipient Jada Ramos.

Recipient Tushar Shivdasani agrees, “I am incredibly honored to receive this scholarship and grateful to the LAAIA for recognizing my efforts as a student at the University of South Florida. This opportunity motivates me to continue looking for excellence and to give back to the community that believes in my potential. Thank you for your generous support and encouragement.”

“Thank you for this opportunity and for supporting my education. This scholarship means a lot to me, as it helps me stay focused on my professional goals and motivates me to keep growing,” states Javier Cassis.

Through financial support from the scholarship, students can focus on their education. “This scholarship from the LAAIA will directly support my education by relieving financial pressures and allowing me to focus more on my coursework and professional development. With this support, I plan on pursuing my major in Risk Management and Insurance at USF and exploring opportunities in the Tampa Bay Area,” as stated by Michael Miller.

Ascendant Insurance Solutions remains committed to education and developing the next generation of insurance leaders. By supporting initiatives like the LAAIA Scholarship, we nurture emerging talent and contribute to a dynamic and thriving insurance industry.