Announcing the Winners of the 40th Frank P. Samford Jr. Chess Fellowship
Celebrating Excellence: Winners of the 40th Frank P. Samford Jr. Chess Fellowship Announced
In a remarkable showcase of talent and dedication, the winners of the 40th Frank P. Samford Jr. Chess Fellowship have been unveiled, marking a significant milestone in the world of chess. This prestigious fellowship, established in 1987 by the late Frank P. Samford Jr., has become a cornerstone for nurturing promising young chess players in the United States, having awarded over $2.5 million to date.
This year’s fellowship recipients include an impressive lineup of Grandmasters and International Masters, reflecting the depth of talent across the nation. The winners are:
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Grandmasters:
- Andy Woodward (McKinney, Texas) – $15,000
- Abhimanyu Mishra (Englishtown, New Jersey) – $9,000
- Andrew Hong (Saratoga, California) – $6,000
- Brewington Hardaway (New York City) – $5,000
- Kirk Ghazarian (Trabuco Canyon, California) – $5,000
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International Masters:
- Carissa Yip (St. Louis) – $10,000
- Alice Lee (North Oaks, Minnesota) – $5,000
- Rose Atwell (Valencia, California) – $5,000
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Woman Grandmaster:
- Zoey Tang (Portland, Oregon) – $5,000
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FIDE Master:
- Megan Paragua (New York City) – $5,000
The total annual value of the fellowship has been increased to $70,000, with fellows eligible to receive up to $84,000 in total support throughout their terms. The winners’ terms officially began on June 1, 2026, setting the stage for their continued growth and success in the chess community.
The Samford Fellowship is not just about financial support; it represents a commitment to fostering the next generation of chess champions. With its rich history and significant contributions to the sport, the fellowship has become a beacon for aspiring players, encouraging them to reach new heights.
For those interested in learning more about the fellowship and exploring a complete list of winners since its inception, visit www.uschesstrust.org/frank-p-samford-jr-chess-fellowship.
As the chess community celebrates these outstanding individuals, the future looks bright for American chess, with these talented players poised to make their mark on the global stage.