GREENFIELD — A routine afternoon shift turned into a life-changing moment for one local student when Rodrigo Velasquez, a King City KFC employee and aspiring pilot, was surprised with a $20,000 scholarship during a celebration March 26 at the restaurant on Broadway Circle.
Velasquez, a senior at Greenfield High School and current shift lead at KFC, plans to attend San Jose State University this fall, where he will begin studies in aviation as a first-generation college student. Throughout high school, he maintained straight A’s while balancing school and work.
“Being able to fly has always been my life’s dream,” Velasquez said. “This scholarship directly supports my flight training and future flight hours, bringing my goal within reach. What once felt distant is now achievable, which is something I am incredibly grateful for.”
Family members, coworkers and customers gathered at the restaurant as Velasquez learned he was one of just 11 recipients nationwide to receive the KFC Foundation’s top $20,000 award this year. The selection is based on a personal essay and demonstrated financial need.
The event also recognized a second local recipient, Eva Vicencio, a King City High School student and KFC employee, who received a $5,000 scholarship. Vicencio plans to attend UC Davis Medical Center to pursue a career in nuclear medicine.
“There are not enough words to describe my excitement after receiving this scholarship,” Vicencio said. “This scholarship will be of so much help in the years to come as I start my new college life. It will help relieve my financial stress and boost my passion. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and those who help students like me achieve their dreams and prepare for the future.”
The scholarships are part of a broader effort by the KFC Foundation, which is awarding more than $2 million to over 300 KFC restaurant employees nationwide this year. Since its inception in 2012, the program has awarded more than $25 million in scholarships to over 8,500 employees.
“Education opens doors, and we’re proud to help KFC restaurant employees walk through them,” said Emma Horn, executive director of the KFC Foundation. “Each scholarship represents an investment in someone’s future and the incredible potential they bring to their communities.”
The KFC Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization, supports education access, financial assistance and community programs. Over the past 25-plus years, it has provided more than $47 million to individuals and nonprofit organizations nationwide.
