Makynzee Balluff of Davenport is the inaugural recipient of Happy Joe’s newly launched Hollie Matthys’ Scholarship Award, the Quad Cities-born pizza parlor chain recently announced.
The new program encourages team members and their families to pursue higher education, trade and vocational training. The award supports salaried or hourly employees who meet criteria outlined in the employee handbook on their educational journeys. Recipients are eligible to receive $500 per semester for tuition and expense support.
The award is named in honor of Hollie Matthys. She served as Happy Joe’s chief financial officer for more than 21 years. The scholarship reflects her commitment to the company and its mission of making a difference in people’s lives.
Ms. Matthys’ journey with Happy Joe’s began early in her career when she was assigned to audit the company while working for a public accounting firm. Her admiration for the brand’s values and leadership, particularly its founder, “Happy” Joe Whitty, led her to eventually join the company in 2003.
“Our team is thrilled to honor Hollie’s legacy in such a meaningful way,” said CEO, President & Chief Happiness Officer Tom Sacco. “Her impact on our company was immeasurable, and this scholarship is a testament to her unwavering support for others”
Reflecting Happy Joe’s dedication to their team members, families and communities, this scholarship will support and encourage the dreams and goals of employees and their loved ones for generations to come. It will be awarded every semester.
Happy Joe’s is known for its specialty pizzas and Midwestern-inspired pies. They include the Lollapalooza pepperoni pizza and the Taco Joe.
For more information about Happy Joe’s, visit HappyJoesFranchising.com.
