By J.R. TIDWELL / Editor

Students are often encouraged by teachers and parents to dream big.

When it comes to Chilton County senior Cade Williams, his dream will take him over 1,200 miles away.

Williams has been accepted to Harvard University Class of 2023 under the Early Action program.

According to information from the university, Cade is one of just 935 people accepted under the program.

Williams has accepted Harvard’s scholarship offer and will begin attending the university in August.

According to his mother Kimberly Williams, Cade will first attend “VISITAS, a weekend-long celebration in April where he will have the opportunity to meet current undergraduates, faculty and fellow members of the Class of 2023.”

“Cade is a humble young man that works very hard at everything he touches,” she said. “He is such a blessing in our lives. We are just so thankful the Lord has blessed him with this amazing opportunity.”

Cade said that he plans to major in history on the pre-law track with a minor in comparative religion, along with a bit of classics and mythology/folklore coursework thrown in.

“Cade will be the first to share that there are so many throughout Chilton County that have supported him over the years to help him achieve this lifelong dream of attending Harvard University,” Kimberly Williams said. “He will also share to never stop reaching for your dreams! Dreams do come true.”

The acceptance letter Cade received from Harvard, “The Committee voted to offer you admission because we believe you will make important contributions to others during your college years and beyond. Your academic, extracurricular and personal strengths will also enable you to access the remarkable opportunities available across the University while adding to the vibrant student life of Harvard Yard and the Harvard Houses.”

Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The school is part of the prestigious Ivy League, a group of colleges and universities in the northeast known for their academics.

“We have watched Cade work towards this goal his entire life,” said Tim Williams, Cade’s father. “There are no words to really share how incredibly proud we are of him.”