SAN ANTONIO (March 18, 2025)—The San Antonio Hospitality Foundation breaks fundraising record during its 2025 River Walk Royalty fundraising campaign. Over $100,000 was raised for scholarships benefiting tourism, hospitality, and culinary students, primarily attending St. Philip’s College and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The scholarships are expected to ease the financial burden of higher education, allowing students the flexibility to focus more on academics than tuition payments.
“This is a significant moment for San Antonio’s tourism and hospitality industry as we embolden the next generation of leaders who will leverage their unique story to shape and transform our industry,” said Marc Anderson, President and CEO for Visit San Antonio. “These scholarships are more than financial aid—they are a testament to our commitment to the people and the future of this great city. It is important for us to invest in its future by supporting the bright minds who will carry forward our legacy of service, innovation, and cultural pride.”
Fundraising for the foundation is tied to the energy and spirit of the San Antonio River Walk Royalty coronation. The amount of funds raised by each candidate determines the royal titles they receive, with the crowned King and Queen as the top fundraisers. The new court is then announced at the annual St. Patrick’s Day River Parade and Coronation. Here are the names of the 2025 River Walk Royalty Court:
King: Samuel Hernandez
Queen: Karsen Maldonado
Prince: Julian Tovar
Princess: Melissa Gonzales
Duke: David Martinez Jr.
Duchess: Annette Champion Flores
Countess: Kristy Ward
Viscountess: Millisa Picazo
“The Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the River Walk Royalty Court for their hard work and unwavering commitment toward raising an impressive amount of funds that sets a new benchmark for future royalty,” Marc said. “Their success directly impacts students, ensuring they accomplish their educational dreams.”
Since its founding in 2023, the Foundation has granted a total of $175,000, benefiting a total of 18 students throughout South Texas. With the new funds raised, totaling more than $100,000, the Foundation’s grand total raised now exceeds $277,000 in just two years. St. Philip’s College and UTSA students who are awarded scholarships during the fall semester of each academic year are recognized as Visit San Antonio Scholars at the Visit San Antonio Annual Meeting each November.
For more information about the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation, go to VisitSanAntonio.com/Foundation.