Kristen Joanna Molina Medina, graduate, SCF

With an interest in education and love of helping others learn, Kristen Joanna Molina Medina found herself drawn to the business field and the many ways it shapes opportunities and communities.  

Molina graduated with a 3.88 GPA and an Associate in Arts degree with a concentration in business from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) in Spring 2026. She was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate Award finalist for her academic and leadership accomplishments. She plans to transfer to the University of South Florida (USF) in Fall 2026 and pursue a degree in business analytics and information systems at USF’s Muma College of Business.

“I come from a family with a strong entrepreneurial mindset, which has inspired me to aim higher, push myself and accomplish more,” said Molina. “I enjoy learning how businesses grow, how teams work together and how the right strategies and technology can create opportunities.”

Molina’s mentors from Manatee High School and the professionals she knew recommended that she start her higher education at SCF.

“They encouraged me to build a strong foundation and take advantage of leadership opportunities early in my college journey,” Molina said. “SCF allowed me to stay close to family while receiving a quality education and becoming involved on campus much earlier than I expected.”

Leading an active student life, Molina took classes online and at SCF Bradenton, participated in Sigma Kappa Delta English Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and served in multiple roles at the college while working as a marketing manager and sales representative for her dad’s business, Kir Painting LLC, which specializes in luxury beach home and new construction home painting on Anna Maria Island.

Molina’s leadership roles included the president of the Student Government Association, the president of the Student Activity Budget Committee, the student representative on the Planning and Budget Committee, the vice president of the STEM club, a social media ambassador and the vice president state officer and social media committee manager for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate Club.

In addition to her leadership service, Molina participated in Earth Club, Campus Ministry study groups and FBLA state competitions. She also built the Student Union Online website to connect students to the college’s resources, events and opportunities.

Molina credits SCF’s faculty and staff for offering valuable leadership opportunities, building her self-confidence and supporting her academic success inside and outside of the classroom.

“I love the sense of community at SCF,” said Molina. “The professors and staff genuinely care about students and want to see them succeed. I loved being on the Student Life team with Audrey James, Bryanna Mansi and Renee Davies. The advisors were dedicated and approachable, and my cousins in the TRIO Student Support Services program were passionate and supportive. They all encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and grow.”

FBLA advisors Jason Reed, associate professor, computer science and department chair, technology, SCF, and his wife, Roberta Reed, instructor, accounting, SCF, motivated Molina to enhance her leadership skills. Professor Reed elected Molina as a student representative at the Career Connections Conference in Iowa in November 2025, where she and her fellow FBLA officers, Anna Carlton, Aaron Rodriguez and Kara Reed, competed in a business case competition. Professor Reed presented the FBLA Member of the Month award to Molina in 2025 and an Outstanding FBLA Officer award to Molina and her team at the SCF Honors Convocation in May 2026. She earned second place in computer applications at the Florida FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference in March 2026 and now serves as the vice president of communications state officer for Florida FBLA.

“In FBLA, Mr. and Mrs. Reed pushed us to grow professionally and work collaboratively in teams,” Molina said. “Their mentorship helped me discover my strengths and challenged me to take on leadership roles. I’m so grateful for their guidance.”

Jennifer Bieselin, professor, language and literature, SCF, inspired Molina to sharpen her public speaking skills. Molina advanced her skills and achieved a public speaking award at the Florida FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference in 2025. Bieselin presented the Outstanding Student in Speech award to Molina at the SCF Honors Convocation in May 2026.

“Professor Bieselin pushed me to grow as a speaker and helped me find confidence in my voice,” said Molina. “I’m incredibly grateful that she believed in me.”

After completing her education at USF, Molina envisions working as a business analyst, applying the real-world problem-solving skills she has learned. She also dreams of becoming a professor and public speaker, combining business, technology and leadership to make a lasting impact.

“My goal is to continue developing my skills and growing professionally,” Molina said. “I want to build successful companies, become a recognized public speaker and create opportunities that help people grow personally and financially.”

Outside of her studies, Molina enjoys painting, volunteering at her church, creating social media content, spending time with her family and learning about business and personal finance. In the future, she wants to travel to Japan to experience its theme parks, culture and unique attractions.

Whether students are beginning their college journey, preparing to transfer, advancing their careers or exploring new opportunities, SCF provides the support and resources to help them succeed.

At SCF, we meet you where you are. We’re Everyone’s College.

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