Regis Sophomore Awarded $25,000 Chick-fil-A Scholarship

Sophomore Samuel Fuentes, a dedicated Chick-fil-A employee, has been awarded the $25,000 Remarkable Futures scholarship in recognition of his hard work, leadership and commitment to education.

In a surprise event, Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew Cathy and the company’s corporate team flew in from Atlanta to personally present Fuentes with the award. The moment underscored Fuentes’ perseverance and dedication as a first-generation college student.

“This means that a dream is one step closer to becoming a reality,” Fuentes said. “My motto in college has been that God will provide. The financial aspect of college has always been uncertain, so more than anything, I’ve trusted in God and His plan.”

Erin Winterrowd, dean of Regis College, emphasized Fuentes' impact as a student leader and future educator. 

“Samuel is a shining example of the resilience, passion and determination we see in our first-generation students,” Winterrowd said. “His commitment to education and his ability to uplift those around him make him an inspiration — not only to his peers but to all of us at Regis.” 

Jason Taylor, professor and director of Regis University’s First-Year Experience program, praised Fuentes’ resilience and leadership. 

“Samuel embodies everything that makes first-gen students such a gift to us — moving up and through higher education without losing his way,” Taylor said. “He remains grounded in the values of community, relationship and care, and he lives out those values in ways that make RU First a better program and Regis a better university. We are so grateful for him as a student, a future teacher and a person.” 

Fuentes, a biology and education major, is part of the university’s First Scholars program, which helps first-generation students build a strong support network. He has worked his way through college while also helping his family cover medical expenses. This scholarship will bring him one step closer to fulfilling his dream of becoming a high school teacher and inspiring future generations, just as his own teachers once inspired him. 

Each year, Chick-fil-A awards at least 12 Remarkable Futures scholarships of $25,000 to students based on academic achievement, community service and financial need. Recipients also participate in a one-year leadership and mentoring program. 

“It is our pleasure to support the academic journeys of these future leaders,” Chick-fil-A states on its community page.