Give to the Connor Max Firefighter Memorial Endowed Scholarship

When Connor Maxwell Fernandez, known as Connor Max, decided to enroll in Seminole State's fire and EMT program, it was not surprising as he came from a family of firefighters, police and military veterans. In answering the call to serve others, Connor became a part of a larger community of first responders with whom he developed an unbreakable bond of respect and support.

His motto was "Family First," and he always made himself available for family functions, dinners and vacations, providing much laughter and memories. Growing up, whenever neighborhood parents needed a babysitter, the children begged for Connor as he was a great role model. 

Connor was his mother's heart, grandma's treasure, papa's buddy, a "brother" to his friends, St. Genna's inspiration for bear hugs and her grandchildren, and his godfather's excuse to attend Orlando Magic games. His world was also filled with many family members and friends. 

Living in Altamonte Springs for most of his life, he graduated from Lake Brantley High School where he excelled on the soccer field. He loved adventure, the UCF Knights, Bayer Munchen soccer, Andrea Bocelli, country music, bagpipes and everything patriotic; the American flag, the eagle, red, white and blue along with the Fourth of July. He loved his cat, but mainly, he loved his truck!

When he joined the brotherhood of Seminole County firefighters in 2020, he often spoke of how much he loved the job and the brothers and sisters with whom he served. When he was traumatically injured in a vehicle accident, many of his comrades came and stayed at the hospital during the eight days he fought for his life, offering their support and prayers. Sadly, Connor passed away on Sept. 24, 2022.

His mother, family and friends have established the "Connor Max Firefighter Memorial Endowed Scholarship" to continue Connor's legacy in supporting Seminole State students enrolled in firefighter, EMT or paramedic programs so they may become the next members of our community's first responder family.

See Connor's joy and passion for firefighting as highlighted in Seminole County's personal tribute to this amazing young man who accomplished so much in his lifetime. 

Success Stories

Nialynn Felix

While completing her Emergency Medical Technician certification, Nialynn discovered the love she found in helping the community, the family bond made with co-workers and the opportunity to do more as a first responder.  She decided to continue her studies and become a firefighter through the Seminole State College Center for Public Safety Fire Academy. Her goal is to continue to grow as a paramedic firefighter and work her way into a leadership role. 

"This job is about more than just fighting fires; it’s about showing up for each other no matter the color of your skin or where you live. It’s about communicating with people and making them feel safe. It’s very stressful trying to make ends meet and pay the bills while making sure I pass my classes. I am so grateful for this scholarship, as it has taken a big weight off my shoulders. I am now able to give a hundred percent to this program and my future career." - Nialynn

Maximus McMichael

As a child, Max was a daredevil whose exploits often resulted in a visit by EMTs and firefighters who came to his rescue many times and treated the injuries he sustained during his adventures. He came to idealize these brave professionals, and to this day he always stops to watch as fire trucks zoom by. Studying to become an EMT/firefighter, Max looked forward to helping the people in his community. While in training, he learned his wife was pregnant with their first child. After taking a brief break, he has returned to the Fire Academy and looks forward to graduating in December 2023.

"I am so thankful to receive this scholarship. With a newborn, our finances are strained and I didn't know how I was going to pay for the training gear or classes. Without your help, I would not be able to realize my dream of becoming a firefighter. Thank you for helping to make my dreams come true." 

Carrina Padua Ross

Carrina's initial goal was to become a paramedic, but halfway through her program, she began her fire department clinical rotations and discovered an entirely different environment. Every station visit was like being invited into the home of a family. They joked together, cooked together, and showed a family aspect that Carrina never had while growing up. She learned that a firefighter's job is so much more than fighting fires; it is being there for someone on their worst day. While in the Fire Academy, Carrina is working double shifts in her EMT job. Her dream is to work for Seminole County Fire Rescue as a paramedic/firefighter after graduation.

"What kind of a person, who is in the midst of their devastation and pain, looks outside of themselves, so that a blessing evolves from their loss? A rare person. My godsend. I wish I could fully describe the way Connor’s Scholarship found its way to me. It came after tears, panic and fear. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Connor, but simply by seeing the heart of his family, I can only imagine what a great person he must’ve been. This scholarship has been a huge help, and I’m so thankful for being able to focus more on my studies and cutting back on hours at work." 

Ronald May

As a child, Ronald dreamed of becoming either a baseball player or a firefighter. When his oldest brother died in 2018 from a heart aneurysm, Ronald didn't understand what an aneurysm was or why it cost his brother his life. From that moment on, Ronald knew that he wanted to learn as much as possible to help others and save lives.  A cadet in Seminole State's EMT/Firefighter Combined program, Ronald plans to remain in Central Florida to serve his community after graduation.  

"To have been picked for a scholarship like this one carries a heavy strong meaning. The support of a brother and his mother in the fire service gives me a whole bigger reason to be the best firefighter I can be. This scholarship helps me to be able to focus on my schoolwork and fire training and I am truly grateful. Thank you for not only sharing your story with me but thank you for giving me a chance to know more about your son."

Michael Davis

Michael feels that firefighting chose him. Three years ago, he settled into a job he planned to be in forever. Then one week, three different firefighters at three different times asked if he ever considered becoming a firefighter. He looked into it and immediately fell in love with the fire service. Since then, he has transformed from someone willing to settle for mediocrity to a proud first-generation firefighter who is goal-driven and will serve his community to the best of his ability.

Sam Pritchard

Since childhood, Sam has been deeply influenced by the values of faith, service and compassion. These principles have shaped his character and instilled a desire to make a positive impact on the world around him. His experiences as an EMT confirmed that being a firefighter was his true calling. Seeing those in distress has motivated him to provide aid and support with compassion and unwavering dedication.

Nestlee Quinones

Knowing he will be able to help save lives and make an impact on the community is what drives Nestlee Quinones to become a firefighter. Growing up in a rough area of New Haven, Connecticut, Nestlee was constantly surrounded by violence and chaos. He saw that firefighters were the brave lifesavers in his community. He wants to give back to the community in the same selfless way those firefighters did when he was a child. After graduation, Nestlee plans to join a local fire department and looks forward to working with colleagues who share the same love for the career as he does. Before enrolling in the Fire Academy, Nestlee worked full-time at Orlando Sanford International Airport to support himself and his disabled mother. This scholarship made it possible for Nestlee to attend Seminole State's Fire Academy.

Kevin Edman

Kevin's passion for firefighting aligns with his desire to serve his community and a deep-seated drive to make a positive difference in the lives of others. After graduating high school in 2013, Kevin temporarily postponed his dream and worked in other fields. He feels he has finally found the career he wants to spend the rest of his life doing. 

"It's an honor to receive this award, and even more gratifying after learning about Connor and who he was as a person. His service to his community, commitment to living life to the fullest, and the importance he placed on putting his family first resonates with me and gives me a strong sense of duty to be the best I can be every day. Meeting his mother, Rebecca, drove home how special Connor was, and her dedication to ensuring his legacy continues  to motivate me to accomplish my goal of becoming a firefighter. This scholarship gives me the chance to continue my studies without it being financially overwhelming. I'm grateful for this opportunity and fully committed to honoring Connor’s legacy and life through hard work, sacrifice and serving others. Thank you to Rebecca and the Foundation for making this possible."

Jacob Dorminy

After being laid off by his employer and learning his wife was pregnant in the same week, Jacob decided to pursue a career that offered stability and the opportunity to help others. His father was a Reedy Creek District firefighter for over 20 years. As a new father, he now fully appreciates the role model his father was during Jacob's early years. Jacob's goal is to become something greater than himself - a valuable team member serving his community.

"Receiving this scholarship has made it possible for me to be fully present in my program and less stressed about having to support my family and cover my educational expenses at the same time. I do not take this opportunity lightly, and with your help, I am determined to become the best husband, father, and community member everyone can be proud of. Thank you! "

Jake Jessee

Jake defines his character as honest, helpful and patient; all values that build trust and respect. These values will aid Jake as he pursues a career as an EMT/Firefighter and allow him to give back to the community in a meaningful way. He follows in his father's footsteps, who served as a firefighter in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years. As a self-supporter, Jake is concerned about how he will cover his living expenses and pay for classes, uniforms and firefighting bunker gear. 

" I am deeply grateful to receive this scholarship which has been a tremendous help and relief in covering his educational expenses. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Caitlyn Strittmatter

Caitlyn grew up in a family that lived to serve the public and knew from a young age she wanted to be involved in the same. Her love of EMS and firefighting arose from hearing stories from her uncles and dad who encouraged her to follow in their footsteps. Her goal is to work for Seminole County and focus on mastering her Fire/EMT skills and then return to obtain her paramedic certification.  As the oldest of her six siblings, her family's finances are dedicated to supporting the family.  

"Receiving this scholarship is one of the most helpful things going into Fire Standards. I do not have enough words to express my gratitude to those involved in allowing me and other recipients to learn and grow without worrying about financial struggle. Supporting myself through college caused excess stress on my already crazy life, and having this chance to not have the burden of college finances is a blessing I couldn't even imagine. Thank you so much again for everything!"

Christopher Gomez 

Christopher Gomez chose this profession because he has personally seen the huge impact firefighters and paramedics make in our community. He viewed his father as the strongest person in the world. When his father fell ill and was in extreme pain, first responders arrived and provided his father with life-changing support and that memory has remained with him. Initially receiving a football scholarship to Saint Thomas University, Christopher discovered that football was not his passion. He later decided that to be the best version of himself, he would enroll at Seminole State College of Florida to become a paramedic and firefighter. Not only did he finally find his calling to give back and serve others, but he also found something that made him feel fulfilled.

“Finally, one step away from fulfilling the dream. My goal is to one day rise through the ranks in a firehouse to become a battalion chief. After graduation I plan to apply any and everywhere I can, hopefully staying in the Central Florida area. Once again, I would like to thank Rebecca and the Foundation for supporting me!"

Daniel Velaquez 

Daniel Velazquez was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and later moved to Buffalo, New York. Daniel simply wants to make a difference in his community by prioritizing the well-being and needs of other people as a firefighter. Another priority for him is to set a great example for his son by showing him what it is like to prioritize others before yourself. He has high hopes of instilling the characteristics of being a leader and someone that people can look up to and depend on. 

“Thank you so much for this great opportunity, as it is truly a blessing to have people like Rebecca and the Foundation supporting me. It brings me joy. Thank you!"

Hugo Ramon-Vasquez

Since he was a little kid, Hugo Ramon has always loved playing soccer. One day he experienced one of the worst pains he had ever felt in his life. After playing with several kids in the neighborhood, he suffered a debilitating injury to his foot. When the firefighters arrived, their professionalism and kindness meant the world to him. Using care and compassion, they did not just treat his physical pain; they offered empathy and understanding during a frightening time. With their presence, he felt a sense of security that he had never felt before, leaving a lasting impression.  Since that day, Hugo has felt the utmost respect for firefighters and is inspired to do what they do. He has begun his journey in the Fire Academy of Seminole State College, and is excited to pursue this career that means so much to him.

“I am incredibly grateful for receiving the Connor Max scholarship as it allowed me to continue pursuing my dream of being able to provide love and comfort for those during their toughest times, just as those firefighters did for me.” 

Luis Sirit

Luis was initially unsure about which college degree to pursue. The only thing he truly knew was that he wanted to help others and work in a health-related field. After taking several classes that he didn’t find fulfilling, he sat down for a series of conversations with his uncle—a former fire chief in Dade County whom he had always admired and respected. These discussions inspired him to consider a career in firefighting. Through further research, Luis discovered the Seminole State College Fire Academy and immediately felt it was the perfect fit. The program’s fast-paced, challenging environment, its focus on serving others, and its mission to strengthen the community all aligned with his personal goals and values. After completing the Fire Academy program, Luis hopes to secure a position with a fire department in Florida and eventually become a paramedic.

“I am extremely grateful that I have been chosen to receive this scholarship and would like to thank Rebecca Thyssen and all the donors who made this a possibility. This will help relieve financial stress and let me focus on becoming the best firefighter I can be. It is a privilege I can receive this and will continue honoring Connor's legacy.”

Cameron Allen

Cameron Allen has a military background, having served in the United States Army for approximately six years. During his service, he developed foundational values such as duty, honor, integrity, and selfless service—qualities that continue to shape who he is today. Throughout his military career, he built connections with foreign militaries and collaborated with various units, gaining valuable experience in teamwork and leadership. Cameron’s goal is to apply the lessons and discipline he gained in the Army to his training at Seminole State College’s Fire Academy. He aspires to become a firefighter and paramedic so he can continue serving his local community. Always eager to grow, Cameron seeks out opportunities to learn new skills and get involved in outreach programs, service projects, and volunteer work.

“This scholarship provided me with more financial means to continue my journey here at Seminole State. Even more so this memorial scholarship gave me another source of motivation and humbleness to complete this course and become a Fireman. It was a pleasure meeting you, Words cannot express the support and purpose this scholarship delivers, I can only continue to work hard and strive to live up to this honor.” 

Jessica Witt

From a young age Jessica has shown a deep passion for helping others. She grew up with a fire station next to her house and was always intrigued watching them. After touring the station, she would spend countless hours watching them head out with lights and sirens to their next call. Inspired by these memories, Jessica eventually joined the Orlando Fire Department Explorer program which provided teens and young adults ages 14-20 with the opportunity to participate in training and ride along with firefighters while exploring a career in firefighting. Her time in the Orlando Fire Explorers program gave her hands-on exposure and solidified her choice to pursue a career as a first responder. Jessica is an ideal Fire Academy candidate because of her strong work ethic, foundation in emergency response and commitment to public service. She is excited to serve the community by saving lives, building trust and making a difference. Following graduation, Jessica’s primary goal is to join the Seminole County Fire Department.

“I would like to sincerely thank Rebecca and the Foundation for choosing me as one of the recipients for the Connor Max Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Their generous contribution means so much to me and is helping me pursue my dream of becoming a firefighter/paramedic. This scholarship gives me the opportunity to continue my studies without having to worry about the financial burden for attending Fire Academy. Once again thank you to Rebecca and the entire Foundation for making this possible!”

James Newsom

James faced a lot of hardships during his childhood. After deciding it was important to develop a foundation toward a future for himself, he later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Joining the military initially paved a way so he would be able to support himself. Unfortunately, his father’s health was deteriorating due to physical illness, which led James to join the reserves instead of active duty so he could stay close to his father. He began attending the Fire Academy here at Seminole State College so he could continue his passion for supporting and serving his community while being in close proximity to his family. His drive to help others stems from his father instilling powerful lessons of hope, empathy and duty. 

“I want to express my upmost appreciation and gratitude to receive the Connor Max Firefighter Memorial Scholarship. To be recognized by a scholarship that is based on a firefighter who passed while in service, is an honor I do not take lightly. This award not only benefits me, but more importantly, it will benefit many others when I graduate from this academy. Whether it is the community, my USMC Military Reserve unit, or taking care of my father, I promise that this great nation will benefit from this award as I have.”

Kale Zinninger

Kale values courage, resilience, and empathy in himself and others, and strives to be a positive influence on those around him. These qualities are what led him to pursue a career in fire service and EMS, where he aims to be a calm, collected professional capable of handling any situation. This profession offers him not only a strong sense of fulfillment, but also the opportunity to give back to his community by providing care during emergencies. Inspired by his brother, a firefighter in St. Petersburg and one of the first in their family to enter the field, Kale has learned what it truly means to serve the community. Following graduation, his goal is to join a local department such as the City of Orlando or Seminole County and begin his career in the fire service. 

“Dear Mrs. Thyssen, thank you so much for honoring me with the Connor Max Firefighter Memorial Endowed Scholarship. I am deeply grateful for your generosity and for the meaningful legacy this scholarship represents. Your support not only helps me continue my education but also inspires me to uphold the values of service, dedication, and sacrifice that Connor Max stood for. I am truly honored and thankful for this opportunity.”

Samantha Camargo

Discipline, resilience, a strong sense of duty, and a tireless work ethic are core values instilled in Samantha from a young age. Raised by first responders, she grew up surrounded by individuals who take pride in their work and serve their communities with dedication Inspired to follow in their footsteps, Samantha aspires to become a firefighter, where she can thrive in an active, team-oriented environment. She is drawn to the profession for its constant challenges, opportunities for growth, and the ability to make a direct impact on the community she serves. The various career pathways within firefighting including paramedicine, instructional roles, and special response teams further motivate her to explore the many opportunities this career offers.

"Coming from a firefighter family, I cherish what this scholarship represents and take this opportunity with great respect for who this scholarship is in memory of. It is an honor to be a part of keeping firefighter Max's legacy alive, and it's something I take seriously. I sincerely thank Ms. Thyssen and the rest of the Max family, the Foundation, and everyone else who makes this opportunity possible. You have enabled me to continue this journey so that one day I may humbly serve this community as my father did and as firefighter Max did.”

Trenton West 

Firefighting aligns naturally with Trenton’s values while offering a sense of purpose and stability for his family. Through this career path he can support his wife and children while setting a strong example of selflessness and perseverance. Becoming a firefighter gives him a deep sense of pride, knowing he is dedicating his life to serving others. Trenton strives to be more than someone who responds to emergencies; he wants to be a trusted, familiar presence in the community. He is passionate about educating others, continuing to learn himself, and giving back to future generations. After graduating, he plans to join a department that offers opportunities for growth and long-term advancement.  

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to Rebecca Thyssen who made this scholarship possible. Your generosity has made a difference in my life, and I cannot express how thankful and blessed I am for the support you have provided. As a husband and father of two young boys, this scholarship has a meaningful impact on my family. This will allow me to fully focus on my training while continuing to support my family. This is a major motivator to work harder and uphold the standard to proactively push myself forward in my future career path as a firefighter." 

Cedric Quince Jr. 

Cedric’s pursuit of a career as a first responder represents an opportunity to build a lasting legacy of service within his family by forging a new path of his own. He aspires to become a firefighter while continuing his education as a paramedic, expanding his ability to deliver critical medical care to the community. Fire services align seamlessly with its strengths and values, calling for courage, discipline, compassion, and teamwork. Through this profession, Cedric is able to transform life’s challenges into a purpose-driven mission, making a direct and meaningful impact on others. The knowledge that each day on the job involves protecting lives, property, and the community is what motivates him to consistently go above and beyond. 

“I am truly honored to be selected as a recipient of the Connor Max Scholarship. This award is especially meaningful because it honors Connor’s dedication to the fire service and his genuine passion for serving others. The financial support provided by this scholarship will help me continue and complete my education by easing the burden of tuition and academic expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my training and goals. I am sincerely grateful to Connor’s mother and family for establishing this scholarship and preserving his legacy. Their generosity not only honors Connor’s commitment to the fire service but also supports students like me as we pursue careers centered on service, responsibility, and community impact.”

Landon White 

Landon chose firefighting as his career path out of a strong desire to help others and save lives. Raised with core values such as integrity, confidence, and discipline, he believes these qualities align closely with the demands of the fire service. This career reflects the person he aspires to be, both personally and professionally. With strong support from his family and peers, who encourage him every step of the way, Landon is motivated to excel in his career. After graduation, he plans to begin working as a firefighter/EMT in Central Florida, pursue additional certifications, and advance toward becoming a paramedic. His long-term goal is to become a battalion chief and inspire future firefighters through leadership and mentorship, making firefighting a lifelong commitment both on and off duty.

“I want to give a huge thank you to Rebecca Thyssen and the Foundation for awarding me this scholarship. I can’t thank Rebecca enough for helping lift some financial burdens I have been facing. I am greatly honored to be able to keep Connor's legacy alive through your support.”

Additional Information

Thank you to the following supporters of this scholarship:

• Aida Acosta
• Angelina Aldrich
• Kalene Aldrich
• Damian, Emily and SJ Anderson
• Chris & Cindy Brown
• Emily Brown
• ComForCare Home Care-Greater Orlando
• Frank Carmone
• Autumn Cedolia
• Yvonne Clayton
• Susan Coschigano
• Vickie Couture
• Jeff Dixon
• Lisa Dottore
• Monique Eyal
• Firefighter Charity Alliance of Central  Florida
• Lynda Gordon
• The Gordon Alliance
• Howell Hanson
• Martin Harris
• St. Genna Herbert
• Ric Herbert
• In Memory of Richard Walter Herbert
• Darby Hold
• Howell
• Bonnie Jackson
• Brian P. Kiley Estate
• Kacey Kropf
• Shari Lagrange-Aulich
• Mary Lantz 
• Legacy Medsearch
• M&O Pensacola
• MFC Motorcycle Club-Central Florida Chapter
• MFC Motorcycle Club-Palm Beach Chapter
• Mindy Machock
• Lindsey MacClaren  (Green Lantern)
• Theodore Maged
• Julie Mahler
• Susan Maika
• Ebie Nilsson
• Dave Nypower
• Lindsay Owens
• Mary Painter
• Mike Parsons (Southeast Roofing & Construction)
• James Peacock
• Wayne Pickering
• Samuel F. Pritchard
• Lori Ann Roberts
• Kari Rucker
• Christine & David Schlitt
• Jose Serrano
• Signal Lights of Zellwood Station
• Christian Skidgel
• Mike Smith
• Anthony Sos
• Erin Stearns
• Ruth Suman
• Rebecca "Mom" Thyssen
• Tonya Thompson
• Angela Townsend
• Valente Family Foundation
• Bruce "Papa" Van Aken
• Geri "Grandma" Van Aken
• Ventris Medical
• Tammy Yarborough
• Christine Ziegler