About Shirley Topmiller

Shirley Topmiller worked for KFC for 28 years, during which time she served as Colonel Harland Sanders' public relations assistant and the chain's director of consumer affairs.

As PR assistant, she evaluated and oversaw the Colonel's personal appearance schedule. She was instrumental in planning his annual birthday celebration and served as curator of the Col. Harland Sanders Museum, gathering artifacts and protecting the history of the early company. She has appeared on A&E's “Biography” and the Food Network.

In her consumer affairs role, she pioneered the development of an “800” customer service line, making KFC the first quick-service restaurant to provide this feature to consumers, and created the “KFC Cares” program, which enabled restaurant managers to provide grassroots grants to neighborhood improvement programs. She later created “Colonel's Kids”, a national program to provide safe, reasonably priced child-care for working parents.

Today, Ms. Topmiller continues to serve as a consultant and speaker for Yum! Brands, Inc., helping the Colonel's memory live on and challenging employees to continue his steadfast dedication to the highest quality foods, service and cleanliness.

She was inducted into the DuPont Manual High School Hall of Fame, her high school alma mater.

She enjoys time with her two daughters and four grandchildren; plays bridge, reads and is currently documenting her family history and personal memories.