The Trotter Project 2026 Scholarship Scholars

Congratulations to our newest Trotter Scholars!

Every year, we're inspired by the passion, resilience, and talent of the students who apply for a Trotter Project scholarship — and this year's group is no exception. Whether you're headed for the kitchen, the front desk, or the field, you represent the future of this industry, and we couldn't be prouder to support you on your journey.

To our scholars in Culinary Arts & Baking/Pastry, Hospitality Management, and Food Science & Agriculture: we can't wait to see how you make a positive impact on this industry. Congratulations — and welcome to the Trotter family.

2026 Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship Awardees

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2026 Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship Awardees 〰️

Andrea Rodriguez

Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Jazlynn Dunn

Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship

College of Coastal Georgia

Gabriella Matovu

Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship

Culinary Institute of America

2026 Homaro Cantu Scholarship Awardees

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2026 Homaro Cantu Scholarship Awardees 〰️

Aarav Putrevu

Homaro Cantu Scholarship

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Hailey Portugal

Homaro Cantu Scholarship

New York University

2026 Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship Awardees

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2026 Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship Awardees 〰️

Aiden Martin

Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship

Cornell University

Cecily Bell

Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship

Cedarville University

The Trotter Project scholarships are available to high school seniors or anyone enrolling or currently enrolled in an accredited US college or university for the upcoming academic year. There are no age restrictions – applicants can apply at any point during their education.

Scholarship applications for the 2028 academic year will open February 2027!

ELIGIBLILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must have 2.5 or higher GPA (unweighted)
Must be a high school senior, incoming or current college student to qualify for scholarship
Complete full online application (apply below)
Must be attending an accredited college/university in the USA
Must submit the following documents:

Resume highlighting community service, jobs, internships
Transcript displaying cumulative GPA weighted/unweighted
Letter of recommendation from someone who can discuss applicants academic achievements and/or character
CURRENT COLLEGE STUDENTS ONLY - Must submit documentation from college/university demonstrating a remaining balance/financial need.
VIDEO expressing how you pursue excellence, your interest in culinary arts/baking pastry, hospitality management or food science agriculture. This is your opportunity to express individuality/creativity, passion, commitment and any other positive qualities you want us to know about. Videos should not exceed three minutes.
Everything must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m CST, May 15th, 2026

New Applicants

Past Trotter Project scholarship recipients are eligible to reapply for consideration.

THE TROTTER PROJECT SCHOLARSHIPS

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THE TROTTER PROJECT SCHOLARSHIPS 〰️

The Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship

Up to $10,000

Named for Chef Charlie Trotter and his legendary commitment to excellence in the Culinary Arts, this award will be given to Culinary Arts and Baking or Pastry students attending any accredited college or university in the USA.

The Homaro Cantu Scholarship

Up to $10,000

This award, named in honor of The Trotter Project’s founding president, recognizes outstanding Hospitality Management students attending any accredited college or university in the USA.

The Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship

Up to $10,000

Named for James Beard Award winner Farmer Lee Jones, who is committed to sustainable agricultural practices at his family’s 300-acre farm. This award will be given to Food Science Agricultural students attending any accredited college or university in the USA.

The Farmer Lee Jones Scholarship is only for food science and sustainable farming majors—veterinary and animal husbandry majors do not qualify.

2025 Recipients

Acacia Bartel

HOMARO CANTU SCHOLARSHIP
San Diego State University
Emma Morandi

HOMARO CANTO SCHOLARSHIP
University of Delaware
Philip Shaske

FARMER LEE JONES SCHOLARSHIP
University of Florida
Aiden Martin

FARMER LEE JONES SCHOLARSHIP
Cornell University
Gabriella Matovu

CHARLIE TROTTER PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE
Culinary Institute of America
Ava Williams

CHARLIE TROTTER PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE
Johnson & Wales University