Meet the Team:
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Jessica Babcock, Suburban Inns
“A common myth about employment in our industry is that there isn’t a future in hospitality. I’m involved in the Michigan Hospitality Foundation to help change that mindset and create more excitement for the career opportunities we can provide!”
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Geoff Bonham, Gordon Food Service
“I believe the future of the hospitality industry is strong but it's going to require our best and brightest. That's why I'm committed to supporting the state of Michigan's future through our Education Fund and its leading edge programs.”
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Larry Brown, Affinity Group
“The most valuable gift one can give another is their time; it costs very little but when you do, you give that person a part of your life.’ This life lesson from an early age drives my service on the Foundation Board, to help impact the lives of emerging and future champions of our industry.”
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Susan Damron, Schuler's Restaurant
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Kevin Kirtley, Mission BBQ
“It is an honor to be a voice for our industry and collectively protect our most important asset: our people. This, now more than ever will be our true test and barometer of leadership.”
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Steve Loftis, Harbor Restaurants
“By providing pathways and opportunities through ‘hands-on’ real-world experiences, students involved in our EF programs along with mentorship opportunities with industry professionals are now thriving in our industry.”
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Sean Marr, Secchia Institute for Culinary Education
“With a lot of hard work, I was able to quickly excel post-high school in the hospitality industry; which was fueled by the guidance of my ProStart instructor and the ProStart program as a whole. The EF allows me to share my knowledge and experiences with the future of our industry.”
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Ken Miller, Millennium Restaurant Group
“The foundation’s programs develop future industry leaders, and I am dedicated to the cause.”
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Jeff Neely, Inspired Concepts
“Together we can Inspire, Lead and Transform each other to be the best we can be through education, passion, drive and focus. I am proud to serve as chairman of the MRLA Educational Foundation and I look forward to helping tomorrow’s leaders learn, grow and develop into the future of hospitality.”
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Jane Newton, Creative Dining Service
“Hospitality is an industry where you can start as a housekeeper, a dishwasher, or a caterer and become an Executive Chef, a General Manager or a business owner! I am passionate about supporting more careers in hospitality and normalizing discussions about mental health. Organizations need to foster an environment that is psychologically, mentally, physically and socially safe. You do not have to choose between this and a career in hospitality. You can have both!”
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Paula Recinella, Culinary Institute of Michigan
“Women were not as welcome in the kitchen when I started out as they are now. Despite that, I pursued an education in the hospitality industry. I want to be the best role model and mentor I can be for all of my students, especially the many young women I encounter daily in my job and serving as a trustee for the MRLAEF.”
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Erika West, Sedona Taphouse
“The hospitality industry feels like family to me. I’ve been in the industry since the age of 14. It’s been an honor to see and help develop those around me. To be a part of a board that looks to protect/look out for this industry is an amazing opportunity. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together!”
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Justin Winslow, Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association
“Employees are the greatest asset of the hospitality industry. The MRLA Educational Foundation provides education and support to those talented individuals.”
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Chris Woodruff, Lake Michigan College
“The work we do is vitally important to help people of all ages, backgrounds and education start or continue careers in the hospitality industry. I am proud to serve on the MRLAEF board because I know we make a difference in preparing a diverse workforce for the best industry globally for career opportunities.”
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Matt Yardley, Sysco Food Services of Michigan
“I am involved because I am passionate about foodservice and helping to introduce our young chefs and students to our industry.”
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Michigan Hospitality Foundation Staff
Amanda Smith, Executive Director
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Jake Osburn, Culinary Expert
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Mario Gonzales, Workforce Program Coordinator
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Sarah Metcalf, Director of Events and Education Advancement
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