Brookfield Teen Surprised With $25K Scholarship From Chick-fil-A

BROOKFIELD, CT — A Brookfield teen received an incredible surprise at work Tuesday when he was was awarded a $25,000 scholarship from popular fast food chain Chick-fil-A.

In an email to Patch, Chick-fil-A spokesperson Sarah Tipton confirmed Gustavo Almeida, a team member at the company's Brookfield restaurant, received just one of 13 scholarships awarded to employees this year through their Remarkable Futures Scholarships program.

According to Tipton, Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew Cathy surprised Almeida with a check for $25,000 at the Brookfield location Tuesday.

In addition to the scholarship, Almeida also received a laptop and will have the opportunity to participate in a one-year leadership development program that includes mentoring, Tipton said.

According to Chick-fil-A, Almeida is recognized as "a true servant leader whose compassion and selflessness positively impact both guests and team members."

The company also noted Almeida is known for his positive attitude, remarkable perseverance and his drive to help others.

Beyond the restaurant, Almeida demonstrates leadership and service as the captain of the men's basketball team at Brookfield High School, a mentor with Unified Sports and an active volunteer within his church community, all while helping to care for his brothers, according to Chick-fil-A.

Driven by an interest in cars and hands-on experience working alongside his uncle, Almeida plans to use this scholarship to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, the company said.

Photos from the event were posted to the Brookfield location's Facebook page this week.

"We are beyond proud of you, Gustavo," the restaurant wrote on Facebook. "Your hard work, dedication, and heart truly make a difference every day...This is a life-changing moment, and it couldn't have happened to someone more deserving. We can't wait to keep watching you be remarkable."

According to Tipton, Chick-fil-A is investing $29 million in scholarships this year, supporting more than 16,000 team members across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

Since 1973, the company has awarded $244 million in scholarships, Tipton said.

More information about the scholarship program is available here.