UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management has received a $1 million gift from the Darden Foundation to establish the Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship Fund, a transformational investment that will support students pursuing degrees in hospitality management and sustainable food business management.
The endowed scholarship honors the legacy of Joe R. Lee, former CEO of Darden Restaurants, whose leadership helped redefine the modern restaurant industry and whose career reflects the power of education, perseverance, and opportunity. Through this gift, Rosen College will award $5,000 scholarships to eligible students, helping reduce financial barriers and open doors for aspiring hospitality leaders.
The Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship supports both first-time-in-college and transfer students who demonstrate strong academic performance, financial need, leadership potential, and experience in hospitality or community service. For many students, scholarships are the difference between postponing a dream and moving forward with confidence.
This new endowment builds on a year of significant momentum for student support at Rosen College. During the past academic year, 182 students received scholarships, with $352,770 awarded across 39 different scholarship funds, reflecting the generosity of industry partners, alumni, and friends of the college who are committed to investing in future leaders.
Scholarship support plays a critical role in student success at Rosen College, where many students balance coursework with professional responsibilities and hands-on industry experience. These awards allow students to focus on learning, leadership development, and career preparation rather than financial strain.
“Receiving a scholarship gave me the reassurance that I am on the right path and that the industry believes in my potential,” says Francis “Frankie” Pepe, a hospitality management student at Rosen College. “It allows me to fully invest in my education and focus on building the skills and experiences I need to succeed in hospitality.”
In addition to financial support, Rosen College emphasizes meaningful connections between students and donors. This commitment was recently highlighted during the RCHM Annual Scholarship Reception, where scholarship recipients had the opportunity to meet and thank the individuals and organizations who make their education possible. The event celebrated shared values, career aspirations, and the lasting impact of philanthropy. See photos from the 2025 Scholarship Reception.
Students interested in learning more about available opportunities are encouraged to explore Scholarships and Financial Aid at Rosen College, where a wide range of awards support students at every stage of their academic journey.
The Darden Foundation’s gift reflects a long-standing partnership with UCF and a shared belief in education as a catalyst for opportunity. Its commitment aligns with Rosen College’s mission to prepare graduates who will lead with integrity, innovation, and purpose across the hospitality and foodservice industries.
To learn more about the Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship and the Darden Foundation’s impact, read more on UCF Today.
Why Give to Rosen College?
At UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, philanthropy fuels opportunity. Donor support directly impacts student success by funding scholarships, enhancing academic programs, and providing access to experiences that prepare students for leadership in a global hospitality industry.
Gifts of any size make a meaningful difference. Every contribution helps remove financial barriers, empowers students to achieve their goals, and strengthens the pipeline of talent shaping the future of hospitality.
Learn how you can support Rosen College and invest in student success by giving to Rosen College through the UCF Foundation.