Ryan Wells was a young man of principles and inspiration. We hope the young students who read this story of Ryan will become inspired to pursue their dreams as he was. In fact we hope that all who read this will have the urge to fulfill their own dreams and share with others Ryan's story.

On February 7, 1987, Michael and Carrie Wells gave birth to Ryan Michael Wells in Memphis, Tennessee.  Just six years later, the Wells family moved to Palm Harbor, Florida where they continue to reside.  Ryan became involved in a multitude of activities growing up, including sports and especially Boy Scouts and Scuba Scouts.  His endeavors taught him the principles, dedication, and willingness to help that would serve him later in his high school years.

Ryan's passion for life made him a natural leader.  Within a year of his passing, Ryan earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout.  His remained active in the troop as an advisor to assist the younger scouts' transition from Cub Scouts.  Ryan was one of the 3 scouts to form Scuba Scouts, now known as Scubanaughts.  The Scubanaughts conduct scientific research in conjunction with the Florida Wildlife and Reach Institute and the University of South Florida Marine Graduate School with grant funding from NASA.  To honor Ryan's contribution, their diving vessel is named Ryan's Dream. 

At Tarpon Springs High School, Ryan became a leader among his classmates and peers.  After joining the golf team his freshman year, Ryan was to be captain of the team his senior year.  He loved the school's culinary program so much that he focused his career goals on culinary arts.  His culinary instructors remember him as the first one in the classroom, heating up the ovens, eager for more time to cook and learn.  In June of 2005, Ryan was one of 30 students around the state selected to attend the Florida Restaurant Association ProStart Invitation at Johnson and Wales University in Miami.  For Ryan, this was an opportunity to help his classmates prepare for the state competition his senior year.  But while returning home from Miami on June 11th, he was involved in a car accident that took his life.

There are students just like Ryan, with the same ideals and aspirations to succeed and give back to the community. With the help of The Ryan Wells Foundation, these students will live out Ryan's dreams by pursuing a career in the culinary or hospitality fields as he had planned.  We also hope that not only students, but those reading this story will be inspired by Ryan's dedication to life and will pass on the legacy of Ryan.

Thank you,