Meet Chyanne Parker, the KFC Foundation’s 2024 GED Graduate of the Year. Over the past four years, Chyanne has become a cornerstone of the KFC in Mansfield, PA, showcasing remarkable determination, leadership, and resilience throughout her journey. Starting as a team member, Chyanne quickly rose through the ranks and now proudly serves as the Restaurant General Manager (RGM).
Chyanne’s leadership has been a steady force, earning her the trust and admiration of her team. Despite initial hesitation, she embraced the RGM role, inspired by encouragement from her leaders. Her team sees her as a role model, constantly pushing them to strive for their best. She actively involves her team in a variety of community initiatives, from family days and local events to holiday catering for an elderly care facility each holiday season.
“Chyanne is a true leader,” says Michelle Lundy, Director of Operations at Kokolas Management Company. “She has overcome so much in her personal life and is one of the most honest, determined, and hard-working people I know.”
Before joining KFC, Chyanne faced challenges with addiction but courageously sought a fresh start to rebuild her life. She retained custody of her children, and two years ago, achieved the milestone of purchasing a home for her family.
In January 2024, Chyanne decided to tackle another big goal—earning her GED. She enrolled in the KFC Foundation’s GED Achievement program and, in just a little over a month, she passed all four subject exams to earn her high school credential in March 2024.
Now with her GED in hand, Chyanne will continue setting a powerful example for others as she plans to pursue a college degree through the KFC Foundation’s Tuition-Free College program.
“Chyanne embodies the resilience and transformation that defines the KFC Foundation,” says Emma Horn, Executive Director of the KFC Foundation. “Her story reminds us of the incredible potential that lies within each individual when they are supported and empowered to succeed.”
The KFC Foundation’s GED Achievement program offers KFC restaurant employees free, comprehensive support to achieve their high school credential. Participants receive unlimited access to official GED prep and testing, along with a dedicated GED Advisor for guidance. Graduates are guaranteed a scholarship to an accredited college or trade school of their choice, provided they meet eligibility requirements. Additionally, they can continue their education through the Tuition-Free College program.
Each year, the KFC Foundation has an annual GED Graduate of the Year Award and a raffle, open to anyone who completed the GED Achievement program within the specified period—both granting the winner $1,000 in Visa® gift cards!
The 2024 GED Graduate raffle prize went to Krista Otto, a KFC Shift Supervisor in Sandusky, OH. Krista has been part of the KFC family since 2018 and has already been accepted into the University of Findlay’s pre-veterinary program.
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