Yates Buick GMC Launches the Mike Yates Scholarship Fund in Honor of Founder's Legacy
By Michelle Talsma Everson -
Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
Yates Buick GMC proudly announces the launch of the Mike Yates Scholarship Fund, a tribute to the late Mike Yates, the founder of Yates Buick GMC in Goodyear. A visionary entrepreneur, Yates lost his battle with COVID-19 in March 2021. The scholarship fund is designed to honor his legacy by providing financial support to Agua Fria seniors pursuing higher education.
"The Mike Yates Scholarship Fund is a heartfelt tribute to my father's legacy,” says Whitney Yates Woods, the daughter of Mike Yates and now the Dealer Principal of Yates Buick GMC. “It symbolizes his commitment to education, community, and the pursuit of dreams. We're honored to continue his legacy by enriching our community with invaluable resources."
Yates founded Yates Buick GMC after his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in the 1980s. He began with a used car lot and a dream, which eventually led to the establishment of GMC Truck Country in Avondale, catering to agricultural clients. Over the years, the business grew to offer a wide range of vehicles, making Yates Buick GMC in Goodyear a go-to spot for Buick and GMC lovers.
This scholarship fund aims to empower Agua Fria seniors to continue on the path of pursuing their educational aspirations and make a positive impact on their communities. Recipients of the scholarship exemplify the values that Mike Yates held dear – determination, resilience, and a drive to excel.
“Mike Yates loved the West Valley, so it is such an honor that our community is coming together in his name to support graduates of Agua Fria High School,” says Michelle Rojas, Avondale Goodyear Education Foundation Board Member. “These students have chosen to continue their education or training beyond high school, and this scholarship is a way to provide them financial support so they can focus on their learning. As a former Agua Fria graduate myself, I am proud to be associated with the Michael Yates Scholarship fund, and grateful for the generosity of our West Valley community.”
Recipients of the Mike Yates Scholarship Fund include Brianna Gisel Soto Zayas, Monica Hernandez Guillen, Gicel Aguirre, Jair Kraul Avendano Gabriel, Jacqueline Fonseca, Paige Hennington, Faith Haney, Josee Mutoni, Adrian Carranza, Alejandra Arevalo and Jacqueline Esquer Lopez.
About Yates Buick GMC
Yates Buick GMC has been serving the Phoenix metropolitan area for more than 37 years. The care we provide customers is based in the belief that every customer deserves the very best care. On top of being a long-standing fixture in the community, with several repeat customers over the years, Yates Buick GMC is also innovative. We have eliminated negotiating tactics and offer a one price guarantee. This helps take the stress out of purchasing a new vehicle. We also offer a world-class parts and service department that is open 6 days a week. With a focus on delivering an honest price and top of the line service, Yates Buick GMC is committed to providing the best car or truck buying experience possible. To learn more and see current inventory, visit http://www.yatesbuickgmc.com.