Gilbert, a 1998 graduate from

McIntosh High School, is the second employee to receive the scholarship

from John Diamond who operates the free-standing Chick-fil-A restaurant

at Howell Mill Road that opened in 1997. Gilbert plans to study biology

and sports medicine at Valdosta State College.

In order to be eligible for

the scholarship, restaurant employees must complete their high school

education, remain active in their school and community, demonstrate a

solid work ethic and good teamwork and posses strong leadership abilities

and a desire to succeed.

To date, Georgia has received

nearly $4 million out of the nearly $16.9 million in scholarships awarded

nationwide since the program's inception in 1973.

Nearly 16,700 Chick-fil-A restaurant

employees have benefited from the program created by Truett Cathy, founder

and chairman of Chick-fil-A, Inc.

"Awarding scholarships

is one way to express our appreciation to restaurant employees who show

us that our youth can and do make a difference not only in the workplace,

but also in their schools and communities," said Cathy. "Obtaining

additional education will help these students continue along their paths

of achievement."