Sodexo, Liberty's Hospitality & Management Assoc. Host Cooking Class

In the fall semester of 2023, a collaboration sparked between Liberty University's Hospitality & Management Association (HMA) and Sodexo, driven by Louis Cambeletta, VP of Auxiliary Services at Liberty University.

The partnership was designed to provide students with hands-on experience and insights into the culinary world, facilitated by Abraham (Ebi) Zahabi, Resident Dining General Manager, District Chef Barry Spence Jr., and other Sodexo team members.

The initiative began with a meeting where Sodexo team members shared their journey as food service professionals, inspiring the HMA students and faculty. This led to Tryphena Mundell, President of HMA, proposing a cooking course to enhance students' cooking skills and familiarize them with kitchen operations.

Ebi Zahabi expressed enthusiasm for initiatives involving students, recognizing the value of fostering strong relationships with the student body.

On April 18, the eagerly awaited cooking class unfolded in Sodexo's catering kitchen, hosting a group of 14 HMA members.

The session focused on making empanadas while also emphasizing essential aspects like employee hygiene, handwashing practices, and proper glove usage, enriching the students' culinary knowledge and safety awareness.

Such collaborations demonstrate Sodexo's commitment to campus partnerships and nurturing student development beyond traditional academic boundaries. This particular event taught practical culinary skills while strengthening the bond between Sodexo and Liberty University's student community.