Congratulations to the three local operators of Chick-Fil-A for being named the Adult and Community Educators (ACE) “Business Partner of the Year.” Chick-Fil-A restaurant operators Mr. Rocky DeStefano, Clermont; Mr. Stephen May, The Villages; and Mr. Kevin O’Leary, Mt. Dora, received the award during the ACE conference held at the Orlando Hilton, September 26-28. The owners were recognized for supporting adult education and its vital role of improving the employability prospects of thousands of under-skilled, unemployed, and underemployed citizens in Lake County. Last year over 350 students received a free chicken sandwich whenever they demonstrated significant academic progress. Thanks to this recognition program, student attendance and retention improved along with the academic success!
Nominations were received from across the State of Florida. According to Mr. Brent Stubbs, Adult Education Chairperson, “This award demonstrates the very best way that business and education can collaborate to make a real-impact in the lives of Lake County residents.”