Honoring the memory of Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante on the seventh anniversary of her passing.

Honoring the memory of Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante on the seventh anniversary of her passing.

Whereas Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante (referred to in this preamble as “Jeri Bustamante”) lived the American Dream;

Whereas, after moving from Panama to the United States with her family, Jeri Bustamante—

(1) attended Miami Beach Senior High School; and

(2) earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Florida International University;

Whereas Jeri Bustamante had a tireless work ethic and a passion for communication and paid for her education by working while enrolled in school;

Whereas that tireless work ethic propelled Jeri Bustamante to professional success, beginning with an internship at a Miami television station and culminating in a period of service as press secretary to Governor Rick Scott;

Whereas the enthusiasm, compassion, tenacity, and vibrant energy of Jeri Bustamante are greatly missed by her family, friends, and coworkers;

Whereas the spirit of Jeri Bustamante lives on through the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship, which aims to help graduates of Miami Beach Senior High School achieve their goals and pursue the American Dream through a college education; and

Whereas April 8, 2025, marks 7 years since the life of Jeri Bustamante was tragically cut short in a fatal boating accident: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate—

(1) honors the life and memory of Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante (referred to in this resolution as “Jeri Bustamante”);

(2) offers heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones, and friends of Jeri Bustamante;

(3) recognizes that living the American Dream remains possible for any individual who, following the example of Jeri Bustamante, works hard to pursue and achieve a goal; and

(4) encourages the recipients of the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship to carry on the legacy of Jeri Bustamante.