Food Service Director - Kankakee School District 111 - Kankakee, IL
(2022-08 - 2026-06)
- Directed all operations of a multi-site child nutrition program serving 4,500+ students daily across 12 schools in a CEP district.
- Led, trained, and developed a team of 50–60 food service staff, improving accountability, morale, and operational consistency.
- Reinvented district menu offerings by introducing healthier, student-centered meal options, increasing participation and satisfaction.
- Pioneered the "Healthy Habits" Workshop, educating students and families on nutrition, wellness, and lifestyle improvement.
- Created and launched the VIP Experience Program, recognizing honor roll and perfect attendance students, significantly boosting student engagement and program participation.
- Established a partnership with Essential Smoothies, introducing 100% fruit smoothies at the high school under Smart Snacks compliance—enhancing revenue and student appeal.
- Transformed kitchen culture by implementing leadership principles from The Speed of Trust and The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, resulting in stronger teamwork, improved communication, and increased staff retention.
- Reorganized and strengthened the Food Service Office, building a more cohesive and efficient administrative team.
- Managed budgets, procurement, inventory, and vendor relationships to maintain cost-effective operations while maximizing CEP reimbursement.
- Ensured full compliance with USDA, state, and CEP regulations, including audits, reporting, and eligibility requirements.
- Collaborated with district leadership and school administrators to align food service operations with broader educational and wellness goals.
Youth Director - Crosswinds Church - Chicago, IL
(2012-08 - 2023-08)
- Recruited, trained, and led volunteer teams supporting middle and high school youth programs.
- Developed and delivered weekly programming focused on leadership, personal growth, and community building.
- Managed annual budgets and coordinated events that strengthened engagement and participation.
Team Leader - HD Supply
(2016-08 - 2020-08)
- Trained new employees in warehouse operations and SAP systems.
- Led order fulfillment processes ensuring accuracy and customer satisfaction.
- Operated equipment and supported logistics operations to maintain workflow efficiency.
Cook (Opener/Closer) - Skyline Club - Chicago, IL
(2014-02 - 2016-12)
- Executed high-quality food preparation in a fine dining environment.
- Managed kitchen operations including inventory, food safety, and sanitation compliance.
- Trained new staff and supported seamless front-of-house coordination.
Senior Field Specialist - Advantage Sales and Marketing
(2010-11 - 2013-03)
- Led training sessions and coached sales teams to improve performance.
- Conducted needs assessments and implemented training strategies aligned with business goals.
Residential Advisor - Joliet Job Corps
(2008-11 - 2010-08)
- Mentored at-risk youth in life skills, discipline, and personal development.
- Developed individualized success plans and tracked student progress.
