If the latest recipients of the Regions Riding Forward Scholarships are any indication, today’s youth have powerful voices and important stories to share—especially when it comes to honoring those who have shaped their ambitions and inspired their success.
At the core of the Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest is a commitment to celebrating both the achievements of students and the people who have motivated and guided them along the way.
The first four winners of 2025 represent the initial group of recipients for this year’s scholarship program. Regions will award four scholarships every quarter throughout 2025, with each recipient receiving $8,000 to support their education at an accredited college or university.
This scholarship contest offers a platform for eligible high school and college students to advance their education by submitting either a written or video essay. The theme centers on someone from their community who has encouraged and inspired them to pursue their goals with confidence.
Key details about the 2025 contest:
The scholarship program includes four separate contests, one for each quarter of the year. Entries are categorized by format—written or video—and evaluated by an independent panel of qualified judges. Each quarter, four students will be selected: two from the written submissions and two from the video submissions. Students are welcome to enter in every quarter of the contest, with Regions promoting the opportunity year-round. At the core of the Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest is a commitment to celebrating both the achievements of students and the people who have motivated and guided them along the way.
The first four winners of 2025 represent the initial group of recipients for this year’s scholarship program. Regions will award four scholarships every quarter throughout 2025, with each recipient receiving $8,000 to support their education at an accredited college or university.
This scholarship contest offers a platform for eligible high school and college students to advance their education by submitting either a written or video essay. The theme centers on someone from their community who has encouraged and inspired them to pursue their goals with confidence.
Key details about the 2025 contest:
First Quarter 2025 Winners:
Isabella Crowe – Recently named Miss Arkansas Teen, Isabella shared how her friend and fellow pageant participant, Sophie Sligh, played a vital role in building her confidence and helping her overcome personal challenges. Their shared experiences in competitions fostered resilience, and Sophie continues to inspire Isabella through her current work in the healthcare field. Neha Varghese – Neha highlighted her father, Benny Varghese, as a key influence in her life. As a first-generation immigrant, he instilled a belief in hard work and perseverance. His example encouraged Neha to become the first in her family to pursue a medical career, driven by the motto, “those who work the hardest, go the farthest.” Nicholas Rhoden – Nicholas honored his cross-country and track coach, Jack Todd, who not only guided him athletically but also champions accessibility in sports for the blind and disabled. Todd’s consistency-focused coaching philosophy has deeply shaped Nicholas’s development as both a student and an athlete. Stacy Xu – Stacy credited her high school teacher, Mrs. Kim, with helping her find her voice and leadership skills. With her support, Stacy founded an Asian American student organization that fosters cultural dialogue, raises awareness, and supports charitable causes—creating an inclusive space for education and connection. Click here to know more about the Riding Forward Scholarship.