#United States #Awards #Washington, D.C. #National Restaurant Association #Community Leadership

Celebrating Visionary Leaders in the Restaurant Industry

The restaurant industry, known for its vibrant culture and community engagement, took a significant step forward with the 2025 Restaurants Advance Leadership Awards held on September 17, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This event, organized by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, aims to recognize individuals who exemplify people-first leadership and are committed to building opportunities for all.

Four extraordinary leaders were honored for their dedication to fostering career growth, promoting community well-being, and inspiring future generations within this essential sector. These awards celebrate the profound impact of leadership that prioritizes humanity and purpose, transcending mere business practices.

Event Highlights and Honorees

The event was not just a ceremony; it was a celebration of commitment, innovation, and the meaningful contributions made by leaders in the foodservice sector. Sponsored by renowned organizations such as American Express, Ecolab, and PepsiCo, the awards honored various categories, including career advancement for diverse backgrounds, local investments, and transformative personal journeys.

Inclusion Innovator Award

The Inclusion Innovator Award was presented to Kim Morrison, co-founder of BeanZ Co. This coffee café stands out for its mission to provide meaningful jobs to adults with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Since its inception in 2018, BeanZ Co. has employed over 65 individuals, fostering an environment of mentorship and collaboration. Under Morrison's leadership, the café partners with educational institutions to create hands-on skill development programs, shaping future employment pathways for students.

Community Champion Award

The Community Champion Award went to John E. Michel, the Co-Founder of Soulcial Kitchen. A retired Air Force Brigadier General, Michel has channeled his passion for community service into creating a hospitality hub aimed at training aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those with disabilities. His efforts include the innovative Food Truck Apprenticeship program, significantly expanding opportunities for individuals looking to enter the foodservice sector.

My Journey Award

Receiving the My Journey Award was Jamie McDonald, owner of Bear's Smokehouse BBQ. McDonald’s inspiring backstory includes a journey of resilience, transforming personal challenges into a successful restaurant business. His commitment to second-chance hiring reflects his belief that a restaurant can serve as a catalyst for social change, with a remarkable 70% of his workforce consisting of returning citizens.

Thad and Alice Eure Ambassador of Hospitality Award

Lastly, the Thad and Alice Eure Ambassador of Hospitality Award recognized Gregory J. Hamer, Sr., CEO of BG Food Enterprises, LLC, which operates over 215 Taco Bell locations across several states. Hamer’s distinguished public service and success in the restaurant industry exemplify a lifetime of service that has left an indelible mark on the sector.

The Bigger Picture

These awards not only honor individual achievements but also underscore the importance of leadership rooted in community engagement and the commitment to lifting others up. Michelle Korsmo, President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association, highlighted that leadership in the restaurant industry is fundamentally about people – creating a space for everyone to thrive.

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation has established scholarships in honor of each award recipient, totaling $2,500 each for aspiring students in the restaurant and foodservice fields. This initiative further cements the awards’ focus on fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

For more information on the award winners and the impact of their initiatives, visit ChooseRestaurants.org.

In a world where the restaurant industry continues to evolve, these visionary leaders serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that with commitment and compassion, the future holds boundless opportunities for all.