Sometimes, by doing the ordinary, people have an extraordinary impact on others.
The most recent winners of the Regions Riding Forward® Scholarship Contest highlight inspiring stories about the individuals who have helped motivate them to achieve their goals.
Regions awards four scholarship prizes for each quarter of the calendar year, and each winning student receives a check in the amount of $8,000 made out to their designated accredited college.
The Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest provides opportunities for high school and college students to share stories about someone in their community who has inspired them and helped build their confidence.
Contest winners from the fourth quarter of 2025 and the individuals they highlighted in their award-winning submissions include:
Bobbi Bentz (Brette’s mother) is a powerful example of leadership, perseverance and confidence. As the first female mayor of their town in Iowa — the state’s fifth-largest city — she has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to both family and community. From serving on the City Council to leading as mayor while also earning a Ph. D., working full-time and founding a nonprofit, her dedication reaches far beyond her role in public service.
Through a behind-the-scenes view of that commitment, Brette has been inspired to pursue goals with confidence and resilience. Whether offering encouragement on the softball field or reinforcing the value of hard work and self-belief, Bobbi’s guidance has helped shape a mindset grounded in perseverance and growth.
Her example shows that confidence is built through determination, learning from challenges and continuing to move forward. By balancing leadership, service and family, she has made a lasting impact — inspiring Brette to aim high and trust in the ability to achieve meaningful goals.
Dr. Kaitlin Farrell made a lasting impact on Kailee D. Williams during one of the most challenging moments of her life. After undergoing surgery for a breast mass, Kailee found both comfort and inspiration in Dr. Farrell’s care, compassion and willingness to engage deeply with her questions and curiosity.
What began as a difficult and uncertain experience grew into a meaningful mentorship. Recognizing Kailee’s passion for learning, Dr. Farrell invited her to shadow during the summer — offering a firsthand look at the field of breast oncology and the opportunity to witness the importance of compassionate patient care. Through that experience, Kailee saw how Dr. Farrell supports patients facing fear and uncertainty, going beyond clinical expertise to provide emotional encouragement and reassurance.
Inspired by this example, Kailee now plans to study biochemistry and pursue a future as a surgical oncologist and researcher, with a focus on advancing breast cancer treatment. She is driven not only by scientific curiosity, but also by a desire to improve outcomes and representation in the field. Dr. Farrell’s mentorship helped shape Kailee’s vision of becoming a physician who supports patients both physically and emotionally — making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Dr. Brendan Ozawa-de Silva inspired Anvita Guttikonda to explore how education can help create a more compassionate and connected world. After a personal experience that highlighted the emotional impact of violence and isolation, Anvita was drawn to Dr. Ozawa-de Silva’s work at Emory University, where he focuses on social, emotional and ethical learning.
Through her involvement in his lab, Anvita found both mentorship and purpose. Dr. Ozawa-de Silva recognized her potential early on, encouraging her to pursue ambitious ideas and develop confidence in her voice. His guidance extended beyond academics, introducing practices such as reflection and mindfulness that helped Anvita navigate stress and build stronger connections with others.
Inspired by his example, Anvita now plans to help shape educational systems that prioritize empathy, well-being and meaningful human connection. Through encouragement and opportunity, Dr. Ozawa-de Silva has helped Anvita see herself as someone capable of leading change — and inspiring it in others.
Michelle Nesbitt (Destinee’s mother) is a powerful example of resilience, perseverance and unwavering dedication. Growing up in a family facing financial hardship, she overcame significant challenges — including becoming a parent at a young age — while continuing to pursue her education and build a stable future for her family.
Through determination and hard work, Michelle earned her associate degree, later becoming an educator and eventually obtaining a master’s degree in education. Along the way, she remained deeply committed to her children, ensuring they had opportunities she did not — from extracurricular activities to academic achievement.
Destinee credits her mother’s example with shaping her own path and aspirations. Inspired by Michelle’s perseverance and passion for helping others, Destinee plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and become a pediatric nurse. Michelle’s belief in pushing forward despite obstacles has instilled confidence, purpose and a desire to give back in the next generation.
To learn more about the Riding Forward Scholarship, visit www.regions.com/ridingforward.
See full contest rules for complete details, including eligibility and submission requirements, and explore a list of previous winners and their inspiring stories.If you know of a student — in college or on the path there — please share this opportunity with them and their school counselor.
The Regions Riding Forward Scholarship contest has awarded more than $1.5 million in educational assistance to over 400 students during the past 13 years.