Andrew Barnes, for whom the scholarship is named, was the former CEO and chairman of Times Publishing Co. who established scholarships during his tenure. They are funded through the Tampa Bay Times Fund, Inc., the philanthropic arm of the Tampa Bay Times. The Barnes Scholarship is intended to help high-achieving, financially needy students afford their "dream" school. The student is encouraged to apply to at least six colleges. Two should be "dream schools" that the student would love to attend, even if he/she is unsure about admission or affordability. Two should be "reach colleges" that represent an ambitious goal for the student, while two should be "for-sure schools" that the student is reasonably certain will admit him/her. This scholarship will be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, evidence of having overcome significant obstacles in life, and community service. Preference will be given to students whose parents have not graduated from a college or university as well as to students who are applying to schools outside of Florida.