The board of directors of the Foundation of Collier County Medical Society is pleased to announce that Kaitlyn Barnes is the recipient of the Foundation’s 2026 Dr. William and Nancy Lascheid Memorial Scholarship for Medical Students. Ms. Barnes is a graduate of Barron Collier High School in Naples and is in the class of 2028 at Florida State University College of Medicine.
This prestigious, $15,000 award recognizes medical students who are residents of Florida and have demonstrated exceptional community service efforts. It honors the memory of Dr. and Mrs. Lascheid, visionary founders of the charitable Neighborhood Health Clinic in Naples and past presidents of CCMS and the CCMS Alliance, respectively.
“The 12th annual Memorial Scholarship recognizes future physicians who exemplify not only academic excellence but also a lasting commitment to serving those in need,” said Dr. Rolando Rivera, board chair of the Foundation. “Ms. Barnes represents the compassion, dedication, and commitment this award was created to honor. We are proud to recognize her accomplishments and support her future in medicine.”
“Each year, through the generous support of so many, the Foundation of CCMS awards The Dr. William and Nancy Lascheid Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is a reflection of Bill and Nancy and their dedication to helping others,” said Keith Maples, CEO of Neighborhood Health Clinic. “Kaitlyn Barnes is a shining example of this similar understanding of sharing your talents to help others. We at Neighborhood Health Clinic are proud to be a part of her journey and the impact she will make.”
Ms. Barnes obtained her Bachelor of Science from Florida State University. Her community service activities have included volunteering at Leon County Humane Society, Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, Big Bend Hospice, Cross Point Church, Big Bend Buddies, and City Church, as well as mentorship for pre-medical and medical students. She has also served in a variety of leadership roles at FSU, such as the Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences Program Ambassador, FSU College of Medicine Dance Marathon Chair, Christian Medical Association Treasurer, Research Interest Group Vice President, and Women in Surgery Chair.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the Dr. William and Nancy Lascheid Memorial Scholarship recipient. This award represents far more than financial support, it is an investment in my calling to serve others through medicine,” said Ms. Barnes. “The inspiration of the Lascheid Family and the generosity of the Foundation of CCMS will help me continue pursuing my dream of becoming a physician dedicated to compassionate, patient-centered care. I look forward to one day returning to Collier County to serve the community that has given me so much, and I am grateful beyond words for this honor.”
The Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization launched by the Collier County Medical Society in 2012, with the mission to provide support and leadership to programs that address access to healthcare and promote health education. The Foundation’s 13th Annual signature fundraiser, the Docs & Duffers Golf Tournament on September 26, 2026, will help raise funds for its scholarships and local healthcare initiatives. Further details can be found at ccmsonline.org/foundation/#golf and fb.com/ccmsfoundation.