Local McDonald's Manager Wins Top Award, Big Check

Sean Smith, the manager of the McDonald's at 1214 Jefferson Davis Highway, won the Ray Kroc Award on Tuesday, which is most-coveted honor the restaurant gives out each year.

The award is given to just 1 percent of McDonald's managers in the nation and it's given to the manager who is the most dedicated to his community and provides the best customer service. He was one of three recipeints for the Greater D.C. region. Smith got a $2,500 check from McDonald's and it was matched by the restaurant's owner, Eric Miller. He will also attend an awards ceremony in Chicago.

Smith's career at McDonald's started in October 2004 as a crew member. Through Smith's dedication and work ethic his career led him to being named as the manager just five years later. This particular restaurant, which is adjacent to University of Mary Washington, recently was rebuilt to showcase McDonald's new look in September 2010 and Smith was moved to manage this restaurant.

“Sean’s commitment to excellence is what sets him apart from all others making him a valued member of the McDonald’s team,” said Miller. “Sean is an incredible asset to my team and I personally congratulate him on receiving this very well deserved honor.”

Some of the accomplishments that helped Smith win the award were his community outreach with local schools and booster clubs. He also led a food drive to support the Fredericksburg food bank and started a program in which his senior employees volunteered at the Moss Free Clinic.