For Chris Reyes, what started as a simple request from his Area Director turned into a surprise celebration surrounded by the people who have supported him throughout his six-year journey with Shamrock Company.

A Shift Leader at our Darien, IL Taco Bell, Chris was presented with a $5,000 Shamrock Scholarship (the program’s top award!) during a gathering at his restaurant. Friends, family, coworkers and former managers gathered to celebrate his accomplishment and present him with the scholarship check.

“[The Shamrock Scholarship] gives you another chance to help kids in college like me graduate and be successful.”

— Chris Reyes, Taco Bell Shift Leader

A Surprise Six Years in the Making

Chris began his journey as one of our Food Champions and continued to grow and take on greater responsibility as a Shift Leader.

Those who have worked alongside Chris describe him as dependable, hardworking and intelligent. Managers have seen his dedication to his team firsthand; he’s someone others can count on.

“I am so proud of you,” one of Chris’ former managers shared during the celebration. “Continue in school and I know you’re going to do a great job.”

For Chris, that support has made his time with us especially meaningful. He describes Taco Bell as a place with an incredible culture where his coworkers have become like a second family.

Investing in Our People

Chris’ scholarship is part of Shamrock’s commitment to helping team members pursue their goals beyond the restaurant.

In 2026, Shamrock launched its scholarship program. It was President & CEO Dan McGue’s dream to help others’ dreams come true. This year, we awarded a total of $32,500 in scholarships to team members pursuing two-year or four-year degrees.

“We always talk about how we put people in a position to succeed and develop them to achieve their potential,” Dan shares. “Sometimes that’s with us – a career with Shamrock. Sometimes it’s doing something greater, pursuing higher education. And we love supporting our young people when they decide to do that.”

Shamrock scholarship applications are accepted annually in April. All of this year’s applicants received an award between $2,500 and $5,000!

Supporting Chris’ Next Chapter

Chris is currently a senior at North Central College in Naperville, IL, where he’s studying marketing. With just one semester remaining, the scholarship will help him take an important step toward completing his degree.

After graduation, Chris hopes to build on the leadership experience he has gained at Taco Bell and pursue a career in marketing management. His goal is to continue being someone people can depend on and someone who can help those around him succeed.

Congratulations, Chris, on this well-deserved achievement. We’re proud to support you and excited to see where your hard work takes you next!