CCU announces first-ever TEAL 1000 scholarship recipient
TEAL 1000 is a new endowed scholarship fund created to allow area individuals and businesses to show their support and appreciation for Coastal by making an annual investment of $1,000. All TEAL 1000 donations go into an endowed fund and the interest supports scholarships for students from Horry and Georgetown counties. More than 60 individuals, businesses and foundations have contributed to TEAL 1000. Their donations are vital to helping CCU attract and retain the area's brightest students.
"From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank all of the individuals and businesses who contribute to the TEAL 1000 Endowed Scholarship Fund," Del Castillo said. "I am a first-generation college student and my parents cannot afford to pay for my education. This scholarship offers financial support so that I do not have to worry about working too much, and I can focus on my academics and school involvement. By attending Coastal, I hope to set a great example for my younger brothers."
Del Castillo is an applied mathematics major and communication minor at CCU. He is a member of Coastal's Teaching Fellows Program, and his career goal is to become a high school mathematics teacher. Coastal is one of 13 institutions in the state identified as a Teaching Fellows Institution.
He also is pursuing a certificate in sustainability and is a member of Coastal's Residence Hall Association, the American Sign Language Club and the Eco-Club.
"Coastal is a very friendly, accepting and judgment-free campus," Del Castillo said. "We are one big happy family. The staff looks out for the students' interests and is supportive of decisions made by students. Coastal provides a multitude of opportunities for our careers and interests."
Del Castillo previously attended Horry County Schools Early College High School and Horry Georgetown Technical College. He was valedictorian his senior year in high school and was involved with numerous clubs and organizations, including serving as student body president. Del Castillo has completed more than 400 hours of community service and service learning. He works part-time at Ripley's Aquarium to help pay for college.
TEAL 1000 is an initiative of I'M IN - The Endowment Campaign for Coastal Carolina University. To become a TEAL 1000 member or for more information, visit TEAL 1000 or contact Kim Causey Gomez in Coastal's Office for Philanthropy at kgomez@coastal.edu or 843-349-5038.