Dani Higgins, principal at RCMA’s Mulberry Community Academy, has been named a Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero. She was honored during a game on November 23. The award includes a $50,000 grant to RCMA to support the construction of the new MCA building, a critical component of RCMA’s long-term plan to expand the school’s capacity and enhance the educational environment for our students.
Since 2011, the Community Hero program has honored local individuals making a difference in their communities. Each Hero is celebrated with an in-game video highlighting their inspiring work to help those in need. To support their efforts, the Lightning Foundation awards the Hero a $50,000 grant to benefit the charities they choose.
“Dani exemplifies the heart and mission of RCMA, making her the ideal representative for this program,” said Isabel Garcia, Executive Director at RCMA. “With over 20 years of experience in education, Dani has committed her life to uplifting the youth of the Mulberry community. She is a teacher, a mentor, an advocate, and a community leader, and it reflects her unwavering dedication to transforming lives and guiding underprivileged youth toward opportunities they once believed were out of reach. She truly is a hero!”
More than an educator, Higgins is an advocate for the low-income families in Polk County. During COVID-19 and more recently during Hurricanes Helene and Milton, she spearheaded efforts to provide essential resources, ensuring that vulnerable families were supported throughout these many challenges.
RCMA will use the $50,000 in grant funds to begin construction of the permanent MCA building in March 2025, increasing the school’s capacity to accommodate K-8th grade. The award will also enhance educational and support services offered at the school.
RCMA is raising additional support to complete this project, and naming opportunities are available.
