FRANKLIN, Tenn., May 14, 2024 – Carl’s Jr.® announced today that Emily Zheng of Lufkin, Texas has been selected as one of ten 2024 Carl N. and Margaret Karcher Founder’s Scholarship recipients from across the country. A first-generation college student, Zheng will receive $10,000 toward tuition at the school of her choice.
Every year, on behalf of founders Carl and Margaret Karcher, Carl’s Jr. awards $100,000 in scholarships to 10 outstanding individuals who have excelled academically, demonstrated leadership in extracurriculars and community, and have financial need to pursue higher education. Since 1998, Carl’s Jr. has granted more than $1.5 million in scholarships to 1,000-plus deserving students.
Open to students in states with Carl’s Jr. locations, this year saw a sharp increase in applicants, with recipients hailing from Calif., Colo., Oreg., Texas and Wash. Recipients also included four Carl’s Jr. restaurant team members.
“For generations, Carl’s Jr. has been supporting the dreams and ambitions of individuals in our restaurants and business communities,” said Andrew Robinson, Chief Human Resources Officer at CKE Restaurants, parent company of Carl’s Jr. “The selection committee was moved by Ms. Zheng experienced growing up in the community and desire to give back. We know she will accomplish great things, and we are proud to be a small part of her journey.”
More About Emily Zheng
Emily Zheng graduates this month from Lufkin High School and plans to attend New York University. At the age of 18, Zheng is the founder and representative for the nonprofit Book Buddies, which provides gently used books to underprivileged children. She is an AP scholar with honors, a mentor and tutor to underclassmen, a member of the Panther Pride Drill Team, and was voted Class Favorite.
Of the opportunity, Zheng said, “My overall objective is to continue the cycle of compassion and eagerness to help initiated by my teachers, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of circumstance, have access to the same educational opportunities as their peers.”
Congratulations to Emily Zheng on this tremendous accomplishment!
About Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr.® is famous around the world for big, audacious, impossible-to-ignore flavors inspired by its California roots. For a bold move, guests have ordered items like over-the-top, juicy charbroiled burger creations, Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders™, Hand-Scooped ice cream Shakes™ and indulgent breakfast burgers for more than 80 years. Together with its Franchisees, Carl’s Jr. operates more than 1,000 restaurants across the U.S. and has a presence in 24 countries worldwide. Learn more at www.carlsjr.com.
