Submitted Photo Tim Harris presents Chavis Williams with a scholarship offered through the Kentucky Fried Chicken Foundation.

VALDOSTA — A South Georgia KFC employee has received tuition help from the national restaurant chain.

Chavis Williams of Valdosta started working with KFC in August 2006 as a cook, according to a KFC press release. After a few years, he wanted to do more and learned the customer service end of the business. 

In July 2015, WIlliams earned his way to be part of the management team.

“Through all of his hard work, he realized the importance of continuing his education. Thank you for your 11 years of dedication.” said Tim Harris, Valdosta KFC franchisee.

Williams is one of 500 restaurant employees at KFC restaurants across the country to receive more than $1.2 million in college tuition assistance from the Kentucky Fried Chicken Foundation thanks to KFC franchisees, including Harris, and the KFC Corporation, according to the press release. 

Through a competitive selection process, Williams was chosen as a winner via the REACH Educational Grant Program and will receive $2,000 for the 2017-18 academic year. 

The REACH Program helps KFC U.S. restaurant employees pursue their educational dreams at four-year and two-year colleges, including trade/vocational and graduate schools.