PRESS CONFERENCE RECAP: Press Release Recap: Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation Invests $50,000 in Future First Responders
Press Release Recap: Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation Invests $50,000 in Future First Responders
On Wednesday, August 13, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation announced a $50,000 gift to fund scholarships for students enrolling in San Antonio College’s Law Enforcement, Firefighting, and Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic programs. The announcement was made during a news conference held at SAC’s First Responders Academy.
The gift will be divided into two equal parts, funding scholarships in both Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. These scholarships will directly support students training for careers in public safety—fields where the need for skilled professionals continues to rise across Texas.
The decision to support SAC came after Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation leaders, including Chairman Johnny Gabriel and Chris Leos, toured the First Responders Academy.
“We were inspired,” said Gabriel. “We saw students training in ways that directly impact the safety and well-being of our community. We met future firefighters and police officers—young men and women who have chosen careers of service and sacrifice.”
SAC President Dr. Francisco Solis emphasized how the gift strengthens the college’s mission.
“Our mission has always been to put students first by providing the education, training, and support they need to succeed,” said Solis. “The First Responders Academy embodies this mission. Every day, we prepare the next generation of firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and law enforcement officers who will protect our community, often in its most critical moments.”
Texas is currently experiencing a shortage of first responders. SAC is addressing this need through its First Responders Academy, which opened in December 2023 and houses the Law Enforcement Academy, the Regional Fire Academy, and selected EMT/Paramedic courses. With new full-time programs now available, students can earn a Level I certificate in as little as six months. Graduates have achieved more than a 90% first-time pass rate on state licensing exams, with several classes reaching 100%.
Rey Feo LXXVI, Fabian Castillo, also shared remarks during the news conference.
“Every dollar we give is an investment in someone’s potential—someone who will go on to serve, lead, and give back,” Castillo said.
Since 1984, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation has provided financial assistance to students pursuing higher education, honoring the traditions of the Rey Feo, La Reina de la Feria de las Flores, and La Reina Linda programs. This latest initiative underscores the Foundation’s continued commitment to education, opportunity, and community impact.Contact:
JR Reichl, TXI Studios
Phone: (210) 802-7215
Email:reyfeoscholarshipfoundation@reyfeoscholarship.com
Website: www.reyfeoscholarship.com Event:https://givebutter.com/ProclaimTheReign
¡Viva Fiesta & Viva Rey Feo! Fiesta 2026: April 16 – April 26, 2026
About the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation
Established in 1984, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation continues to support education through community leadership and fundraising efforts. The foundation’s mission is to provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education while upholding the traditions of the Rey Feo, La Reina de la Feria de las Flores, and La Reina Linda programs.
For media inquiries, please contact Katye Brought at KatyeComm@gmail.com or at (210) 790-6013.
