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SUNY Potsdam Student Surprised with Scholarship from Taco Bell Foundation

Angela Zielinski '20 of Carthage, N.Y., Wins $10,000 Live Mas Scholarship from Taco Bell Foundation

Potsdam, NY (05/08/2019) — Like many students, Angela Zielinski '20 is working to support herself and help get by while completing her studies at SUNY Potsdam. She received a special surprise that will help make reaching her goals a little easier yesterday, when she arrived for her shift at the Potsdam Taco Bell.

Taco Bell management, along with Zielinski's parents, were there to surprise her as the winner of a $10,000 Live Más Scholarship from the Taco Bell Foundation. Regional General Manager Darcy Murphy helped present the check to Zielinski, along with the other members of the crew.

More than 12,000 Taco Bell employees across the country applied for the scholarship. Applicants were required to submit a two-minute video that showcased their passion for the Taco Bell brand and describe their career goals. Zielinski was one of 128 employees chosen to receive a scholarship; the scholarships range from $5,000 to $25,000.

A literature/writing major from Carthage, N.Y., Zielinski began her career at the fast food establishment almost a year ago. Her passion is writing, and she wants to take that passion to create video games that encourage and inspire players to feel more confident in themselves. A dedicated student, she has been named to the President's List for receiving top marks.

About the Taco Bell Foundation:

At the Taco Bell Foundation, no cause is more important than supporting the passions and dreams of our youth. The foundation invests in America's youth, ages 16 to 24, to help them pursue their educational goals and career aspirations-no matter their unique passion. The foundation leverages its scale and reach to convene the right partners, and build impactful programs and experiences so these young people can confidently pursue their dream careers. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 3.5 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $72 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career-readiness.

About SUNY Potsdam:

Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America's first 50 colleges -- and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 3,600 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit http://www.potsdam.edu.

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Media Attachments

SUNY Potsdam student and Taco Bell Foundation Live Más Scholarship winner Angela Zielinski ’20 with her mother, Leticia. Her father John also attended the surprise ceremony.

SUNY Potsdam junior Angela Zielinski of Carthage, N.Y., was surprised with a scholarship from the Taco Bell Foundation when she arrived at work at the local restaurant on Tuesday, May 7.

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