Plainfield Teen Wins Culver's VIP Scholarship

Recent Plainfield Central High School graduate Eriq Vazquez will have a little help when he heads off to the University of Iowa this fall.

The 18-year-old was one of three area Culver's employees to win the chain's VIP scholarship.

Vazquez, who works at the Joliet Culver's at Route 59 and Theodore Street, won $1,000 toward his college education. The teen plans to become a music educator.

Proud mom Sara Hilton said her son has worked for Culver's for two years, holding down the job while managing a 5.0 GPA. 

"He was also part of the PCHS music program ... so you can imagine between work, studies and music he had a lot to balance," Hilton said. 

In addition to the Culver's VIP scholarship, Vazquez also earned a jazz award for his work with the PCHS marching band, and the U.S. Marine Corps Excellence in Music award.

Scholarship details

Each year, Culver’s VIP Scholarship Program rewards outstanding team members who are committed to continuing their education while working at Culver’s. Recipients are awarded between $500 to $2,000 scholarships for use at any educational institution for any area of study. All applicants are required to have worked at Culver’s for one year and total at least 500 hours. Of 471 candidates national this year, 250 received scholarships of varying amounts. A group of franchise partners, supplier partners and friends of Culver’s make up the 48 judges who review the applications.