UCF Rosen College Awarded $1M from Darden Foundation to Establish Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship Fund

UCF's Rosen College of Hospitality Management is charging into its third decade and taking bold steps into the future.

Shaping the future of the hospitality industry requires exceptional talent and visionary partners that invest in our students, UCF and the food service industry. Fortunately, the Darden Foundation is that partner, uplifting our students, empowering UCF and fueling the robust talent pipeline that will forge the future of the hospitality industry.

The generosity of the Darden Foundation will aid UCF with attracting talented individuals from all backgrounds with a passion for hospitality and the ambition to succeed. UCF's dedication to unleashing the potential in people and cultivating the next generation of leaders aligns with the values of Darden Restaurants, its Foundation, and their former CEO, Joe R. Lee. In celebration of this remarkable leader's life and legacy, the Darden Foundation has established a $1 million endowed scholarship fund to support Rosen College students enrolled in the bachelor's in sustainable food business management or hospitality management degree programs, helping to break down financial barriers and transform hospitality aspirations into reality.

Through the endowment, Rosen College will award scholarships of $5,000 to applicants who meet the following eligibility criteria: (1) first-time-in college and obtaining a four-year degree, (2) two-year transfer students, (3) strong academic performance, (4) financial need, (5) leadership potential, and (6) experience in hospitality or related community service.

The Legacy of Joe R. Lee

In partnership with the Darden Foundation, Rosen College will establish an endowed scholarship to empower its students in the sustainable food business management and Hospitality Management degree programs andhonor the legacy of former Darden CEO Joe R. Lee.

Joe R. Lee's career trajectory exemplifies how dedication and perseverance lead to success. From U.S. Air Force veteran to hard working restaurant employee making ends meet to pay his college tuition, Mr. Lee made a career in the food service industry by becoming a restaurant manager, then rising to chief financial officer at General Mills. He continued to advance his career to ultimately serve as CEO of Darden Restaurants - the company named in honor of his mentor Bill Darden. Under Lee's leadership, Darden Restaurants experienced exponential growth to become one of the best-known companies in the restaurant industry. His business acumen revolutionized casual dining, providing an accessible culinary experience to millions across the nation.

"I can think of no better way to honor his legacy than by helping cultivate the next generation of restaurant leaders." - Rick Cardenas, president and CEO of Darden Restaurant

Mr. Lee's impressive career in the restaurant industry is inspirational. The impact of his dedication and long-term support of Rosen College and UCF is immeasurable. As a visionary leader whose impact resonated throughout Florida and beyond, Joe R. Lee changed dining through his strategic approach to deliver quality, accessible experiences for all, establishing himself as a true pioneer in food service. To honor his legacy, Rosen College will receive a transformative investment that celebrates the life of Joe R. Lee, his contributions to Darden Restaurants, and the broader restaurant industry, and leaves his indelible mark on the future of hospitality.

"Joe's vision and tireless dedication laid the foundation for Darden's success today," President and CEO of Darden Restaurants Rick Cardenas says. "But Joe's true passion wasn't just building a great restaurant company, it was building people. I can think of no better way to honor his legacy than by helping cultivate the next generation of restaurant leaders."

Endowed Scholarships: Empowering Human Potential

The Darden Foundation has a profound influence in its hometown of Orlando. Committed to addressing hunger, investing in future generations and providing aid during times of need, the Darden Foundation is a respected philanthropic leader and trusted partner in strengthening the Central Florida community. For nearly five decades, it has supported UCF by creating programs, empowering students and changing lives.

"This investment enhances UCF's ability to attract and retain talent, opening the doors to ambitious students from all backgrounds." - Cynthia Mejia, Rosen College dean

"We are extremely grateful to have such a dedicated community partner in the Darden Foundation. This incredible gift will honor the legacy of a great leader and transform the lives of hundreds of students" Rosen College Dean Cynthia Mejia says. This investment enhances UCF's ability to attract and retain talent, opening the doors to ambitious students from all backgrounds."

Scholarships help to eliminate financial challenges and provide access to a quality, affordable postsecondary education. The Darden Foundation's gift will help UCF to fulfill our mission of daring to build what's next by attracting talented students and cultivating the next generation of leaders who, like Joe R. Lee, will drive innovation and forge the future of the food industry.

Darden owns and operates more than 2,100 Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Chuy's, Seasons 52, Eddie V's and Bahama Breeze restaurants across the country.

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