A Promising Journey

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Kevon Pascoe immigrated with his family to the United States in 2010 in search of greater opportunities. Their journey led them to the Carolinas, where they moved around due to Kevon’s father’s military service before settling down in Jacksonville, North Carolina, near Camp Lejeune. Kevon’s early experiences instilled in him a sense of adaptability and the value of education as a means to a better future.

Kevon’s pursuit of education marked a significant milestone for his family. Kevon graduated from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, and became the first in his family to complete an undergraduate degree. This achievement brought pride to his family and ignited a spark of aspiration among his siblings and friends, demonstrating the potential that education offers.

“Growing up, we lived in poverty. My undergraduate degree sparked a lot of interest in my siblings to earn a degree,” Kevon said. “I want to show them and those in a similar position that our upbringings don’t define us and show them the possibilities of how far they can go.”

Following his undergraduate studies, Kevon followed in his father’s footsteps and was commissioned into the Marine Corps, where he has served as an assistant logistics officer for the past four years. His dedication to both education and military service underscores his commitment to self-improvement and contributing to the greater good.

A Masterful Triumph

Kevon always dreamed of attaining a master’s degree to take his career to the next level. While serving as a Marine Corps officer, Kevon learned about The KFC Foundation’s tuition-free college program in partnership with Western Governors University (WGU).

“It all stemmed from a friend whose mom is a general manager at the KFC near base,” Kevon said. “I was interested in earning a master’s degree and she informed me that by working at KFC, I could earn my degree for free. She offered me a night position and I enrolled in courses almost immediately.”

Just six months after he started working night shifts at KFC, Kevon proudly walked the stage to receive his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from WGU. Kevon’s determination, paired with WGU’s flexibility, allowed Kevon to complete his degree at his own pace.

Kevon’s educational journey will not end with his MBA. He is now enrolled in a Master of Science in Management and Leadership program at WGU, demonstrating to his younger siblings and friends that the pursuit of education is a lifelong journey.

The Beauty of Balance

WGU’s unique approach to education, which emphasizes flexibility and competency-based learning, played a pivotal role in Kevon’s success. He was able to complete his MBA at his own pace, a freedom that allowed him to balance working at KFC and serving in the military.

“Kevon’s achievement underscores how the KFC Foundation has helped create a new pathway to opportunity through higher education, which is at the heart of WGU’s mission,” said Mitsu Frazier, senior vice president and executive dean of the College of Business at WGU. “I am confident that Kevon is well positioned to succeed in the business world thanks to his personal and military experience combined with WGU’s agile MBA program, which is designed to give students the practical skills they need to set the pace of business in the real world.” 

WGU’s commitment to fostering employer partnerships is driving success in higher education. For example, 40% of newly enrolled students at WGU come through employer partnerships. These collaborations provide opportunities for individuals like Kevon and create a pipeline of highly skilled workers who are prepared to contribute to the workforce.

Kevon’s journey is a shining example of how flexible, competency-based learning, in partnership with organizations like The KFC Foundation, can change lives and provide opportunities for individuals to reach their full potential. It is a testament to the boundless potential that education offers when delivered with flexibility, innovation and a commitment to empowering learners.

“I’m proud to show those around me that reaching educational and career goals is possible. Being a role model for my younger siblings and friends back home in Jamaica is extremely important to me,” Kevon said. “I’m humbled to be able to continue my educational journey with WGU and The KFC Foundation and I’m excited to see what doors will open next.”