Culinary Careers Program Welcomes New Board Members to Shape Future Leaders in Hospitality
Culinary Careers Program Welcomes New Board Members
The Culinary Careers Program (C•CAP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the careers of under-resourced high school students and adults in the food and hospitality industry, has announced the appointment of two dynamic leaders to its National Board: Kelly Sennatt Esten and Ben Davison. This move is set to strengthen C•CAP's mission to foster talent in the restaurant and hospitality sectors.
Empowering Tomorrow's Culinary Leaders
C•CAP is recognized for its efforts in providing culinary arts education, job skills training, and career opportunities for those in need. The addition of Esten and Davison is seen as pivotal in reinforcing the organization's commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders within the cuisine and service industries. Their wealth of experience and vision is expected to enhance C•CAP's initiatives and broaden its impact.
Kelly Sennatt Esten, who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Toast, emphasizes the role of bold, inspired talent in the success of the restaurant industry. She states, "C•CAP cultivates the essential skills that shape future culinary and hospitality leaders, transforming lives and redefining possibilities in our industry." Under her leadership, Toast has seen vast improvements in access for budding chefs and hospitality professionals through programs aimed at workforce development.
On his part, Ben Davison, Managing Director at BDT MSD Partners, shares his enthusiasm for the hospitality sector's potential. He noted, "C•CAP is doing remarkable work ensuring students are prepared for successful careers in a rapidly evolving industry. I am proud to collaborate with the board to further this mission." Davison’s expertise in real estate, particularly within the hospitality sector, is expected to bring valuable insights to C•CAP as it continues to expand its reach and influence.
Notable Leadership Enhancements
Co-Chair of C•CAP, Chef Marcus Samuelsson, alongside Jeffrey Samuels, Co-Chair, expressed confidence that the inclusion of Esten and Davison will significantly enhance the board’s effectiveness. "Restaurant technology and hotel hospitality are vital career paths our 25,000 students consider, and we are thrilled to have Kelly and Ben join our board to guide them," Samuelsson remarked.
Both new members bring diverse experiences that are vital in improving the education and skills training opportunities offered by C•CAP. Esten’s background in culinary marketing and Davison’s focus on hospitality investment exemplify C•CAP’s strategy of integrating various industry perspectives to enrich the educational landscape.
The Road Ahead
With their addition, the board now consists of industry leaders dedicated to equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in competitive environments. Their roles will involve overseeing critical aspects of C•CAP’s program development and fundraising efforts, ensuring the sustainability of its initiatives.
As C•CAP continues to evolve, the focus remains on providing invaluable opportunities to aspiring culinary and hospitality professionals from diverse backgrounds. Esten and Davison will undoubtedly play key roles in advancing this vision, creating pathways for success that resonate across the entire industry.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Kelly Sennatt Esten and Ben Davison in the C•CAP National Board is more than just an organizational shift; it reflects a strong commitment to fostering talent and reshaping the future of the culinary arts and hospitality sectors. With their leadership, C•CAP aims to continue making a lasting positive impact on the lives of countless students seeking to carve out their paths in this vibrant industry.