Team Member Scholar Spotlight: Thomas F.

Ready to feel inspired? Pull up a chair as we introduce you to Taco Bell Team Member Thomas F.!

Passionate about culinary arts and bringing people together through food, Thomas is working toward doing just that on a larger scale in his community. He’s a three-time Live Más Scholarship recipient who spends his school year perfecting his craft—and his workdays serving guests as a Service Champion and Trainer at the Mount Joy, PA Taco Bell with Summerwood Corporation.  

Read on to hear from Thomas and catch a glimpse of the spark that inspired us—and maybe it’ll ignite a light within you, too.

Attending the Culinary Institute of America is one of the greatest blessings I’ve received. That wouldn’t have been possible without the Live Más Scholarship.

Thomas F.,
Live Más Scholar (2023-2025)

TBF: Hi Thomas! Can you tell us about your passion in the culinary world and why it matters to you? 

Thomas: My passion is to become a private chef. This matters to me because it allows me to provide a personal service to a wide range of clients and gives me the opportunity to explore, unite, and learn. 

TBF: Awesome, and what role did Taco Bell play in helping you realize that food is what you wanted to do with your life? 

Thomas: Being a Service Champion helped me discover my superpower: hospitality. I love building relationships with customers at the window. Food has always been a major part of my life, but Taco Bell helped me realize that hospitality is where I truly shine. 

TBF: Wow, you must have a gift! So, what barriers have been in your way and how did the Live Más Scholarship help you overcome them?  

Thomas: The biggest barrier in my life has been the unknown—not knowing how I would find success. Growing up, I had two goals: the first was not to end up in an office, and the second was not to end up unknown. 

In a world that pressures young people to choose a career path early, it was stressful to figure out what I wanted and why. But I’ve been blessed with opportunities and experiences that led me to the Culinary Institute of America. With the Live Más Scholarship, studying at the Culinary Institute of America is now attainable for me, and I know I’m on the right path. With support from the Live Más Scholarship, I’m confident I’ll be part of the next generation of successful chefs. 

TBF: We love to hear that. How else has Taco Bell and the Live Más Scholarship helped you build skills or a mindset that supports your passion?

Thomas: Taco Bell taught me three fundamentals that are essential to being a chef:  

1. Work ethic: Since the age of 15, I’ve worked 9–5s and eventually 7–3s. From day one, I understood the importance of staying busy, staying on task, and staying in motion.  

2. Morale: I’ve been gifted with the ability to uplift a team. I take pride in knowing that people enjoyed working shifts with me. I learned that morale is a crucial piece of a successful shift. Creating a happy, fun, and enjoyable work environment made the day go faster—and the food better. Some of our best days were our happiest.  

 3. Leadership: I learned how to lead by example, support my team, and create a positive culture that brings out the best in everyone. 

TBF: Those are so valuable—thanks for sharing. Now, let’s say another Team Member asked you how the Live Más Scholarship changes lives. What story from your own journey would you tell them? 

Thomas: This scholarship has changed my life because being able to attend the Culinary Institute of America is one of the greatest blessings I’ve received. That wouldn’t have been possible without the Live Más Scholarship. 

TBF: We are so excited for you and your journey! Can you tell us how you’re paying it forward to others in your store, school, or community because of this opportunity?  

Thomas: I pay it forward through my actions. Every day, no matter how I’m feeling, I try to make someone’s day—whether it’s opening a door, helping someone find their way, or simply asking, “How are you doing?” and truly listening. Small acts can have a big impact. For me, it feels natural. Maybe it’s the hospitality rooted in me, but being there for others brings joy to them—and to me. 

TBF: We’re all here because of generous donors across our nation, including those in our Taco Bell organization. What would you want Taco Bell owners and leaders to know about the kind of community they’re investing in? 

Thomas: To Taco Bell owners and leaders: you are investing in the future. Our goal is to inspire future leaders to dream big, believe in themselves, and build the foundation they need to become great in their own way. From day one, we were encouraged to apply for the scholarship, and we believe if Taco Bell invests in us, we should invest in ourselves and develop the qualities that will help us go on to do great things. Just know that the students who receive these scholarships have the drive, passion, and determination to succeed. 

To learn more about the Live Más Scholarship visit tacobellfoundation.org.   

The Taco Bell Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity. For more information visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.