Chick-fil-A CEO Surprises Team Member with $25,000 Scholarship: A Story of Dedication and Support
Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew T. Cathy recently surprised a team member at a Columbus location with a $25,000 scholarship as part of the Remarkable Futures Scholarships program. The recipient, Sarah Noble-Eggie, is a mother and military spouse who is pursuing her undergraduate degree online at the University of Maryland Global Campus. Noble-Eggie, who has maintained a 4.0 GPA while working as a team leader at Chick-fil-A, expressed her gratitude for the scholarship, which will allow her to focus more on her studies and family.
Noble-Eggie, who also works at her father's food truck, shared her passion for literature and the power of words. Her husband, Dakota Noble-Eggie, commended her hard work and dedication, noting that the scholarship recognition has boosted her confidence. Chick-fil-A's scholarship program has a long history, dating back to the 1950s when founder S. Truett Cathy initiated a scholarship fund for a team member named Eddie White. Over the years, the program has grown significantly, with millions of dollars awarded to team members to support their education.
Andrew Cathy, reflecting on the program's growth and impact, emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and supporting team members in pursuing their dreams. The scholarships are administered by Scholarship America, with selection criteria based on financial need, academic performance, community service, and recommendations. In 2026, Chick-fil-A plans to invest $29 million in scholarships to support over 16,000 team members. The program aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of employees and their communities through education and support.