Oklahoma's Best High School Culinary Talent to Compete for State Championship and National Berth2/12/2026 Winners advance to National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore with scholarships and industry opportunities on the line
OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 11, 2026) – Oklahoma's most talented high school culinary arts and restaurant management students will compete for state supremacy at the annual Ben E. Keith Oklahoma ProStart® Invitational on Feb. 26, 2026, at Francis Tuttle Technology Center, 12777 N. Rockwell Ave., Oklahoma City. More than 90 students from eight schools across the state will showcase their skills in front of industry judges, vying for the championship title and the opportunity to represent Oklahoma at the 2026 National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore, April 24-26. The competition features two distinct challenges. In the management category, student teams will pitch innovative restaurant concepts to a panel of industry professionals. Culinary teams will face an even more demanding test: preparing a three-course meal in just 60 minutes using only two butane burners—without running water or electricity. Judges will evaluate presentations on taste, technical skill, teamwork, food safety and sanitation practices. ProStart is a nationally recognized two-year career training program administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. Operating in nearly 1,850 high schools across the United States and Guam, the program currently serves 165,000 students and has impacted more than 1 million young people over the past 24 years. Many program graduates have launched successful careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. The Oklahoma Restaurant Association hosts the state championship, with sponsorship from Ben E. Keith Co. ### About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
0 Comments
The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) announced its 2026 Elected & Advisory Directors at its annual meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the Embassy Suites- Oklahoma City Northwest. “On behalf of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, we’re pleased to welcome these respected industry leaders and are grateful for their willingness to serve as directors,” said James Leewright, President & CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. “Their leadership and engagement are essential to advancing our mission and strengthening Oklahoma’s foodservice and hospitality industry.” The ORA has elected the following Elected & Advisory Directors for 2026, who represent membership around the state. Officers & Executive Committee Members: Chair - J Mays, Café 7 Delicatessen & Pastaria, Oklahoma City Vice Chair/Treasurer – Amy Moss, McGill’s, Tulsa 2nd Vice Chair – James Como, Urban Management, Norman Chief Executive Officer – James Leewright, Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association President – Patti Colley, Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association ORA Elected & Advisory Directors include: Scott Bainbridge, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Seminole Joel Bein, The Meat and Cheese Show, Tulsa Brian Bogert, The Jones Assembly, Oklahoma City Steven Buck, Mentalitea & Coffee, Bethany Michael Bujold, Downstream Casino, Quapaw Ross Crain, The Crain, LLC, Oklahoma City Mark Cochran, OSU School of Hospitality Management, Stillwater Kim Danserau, Humankind Hospitality Services, Oklahoma City Stephen DeGraffenreid, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Shawnee Andrew Delaney, Chick-Fil-A, Claremore Cortney Dennis, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Tulsa Matt DuMond, Simple Simon’s Pizza, Yukon Callie Emig, Republic National Distribution, Oklahoma City Robert Founds, Lloyd’s Cuts, Tulsa John Gaberino III, Topeca Coffee, Tulsa Tyler Gillespie, Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Norman Ryan Gray, Billy Sims BBQ, LLC, Tulsa Kirk Greenwood, Auto-Chlor Services, LLC, Oklahoma City Steve Griffin, Pearl’s Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City Shay Hayes, Hatch Lawton/Brunch Bunch, LLC, Edmond Jeffrey Holloway, Boulevard Steakhouse/Holloway Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City Russ Johnson, R&J Lounge & Supper Club, Oklahoma City Craig Johnson, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, Oklahoma City Brad Johnson, Allen Olliver Group, Oklahoma City Darren Lister, Hideaway-2 Inc., Tulsa William Lyle, Summit Club, Tulsa Bill Leib, Francis Tuttle Technology Center, Oklahoma City Jeff Marlow, Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, Tulsa Joe Martin, Stillwater Hospitality/Hampton Inn & Suites, Stillwater Heather McGregor, McGregor Insurance Group, Tulsa Seth Nimmo, Rib Crib Corporation, Tulsa Ashley Peterson, Wayne Hirst Center for Beverage Education, Stillwater Dave Osborne, Symmetry, Oklahoma City Marina Rabinovich, Big Truck Tacos, Oklahoma City Randall Ray, Downstream Casino, Quapaw Eric Renegar, DCW Investments, LLC, Ardmore Bruce Rinehart, Rococo Restaurant, Oklahoma City Josh Royal, Roosevelt’s, Tulsa Nick Schaefer, Interurban Restaurants, Norman Charles Stout, Bricktown Brewery, Edmond Katie Walters, Pete's Place, Krebs Michael Wehba, The Social Order, Edmond Jamie Winteroth, Aurora, REV Mex & Social Catering, Oklahoma City ### Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
Distinguished Industry Leadership Award The Oklahoma Restaurant Association's Distinguished Industry Leadership Award recognizes an exemplary member of the restaurant community who has demonstrated significant leadership and excellence. Through their leadership and meaningful contributions, these individuals have made a lasting impact on the industry and strengthened the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. The 2025 Distinguished Industry Leadership Award was presented to Elliot Nelson, Founder and CEO of McNellie's Group, who has dedicated 21 years to the food service industry. "One thing I really appreciate about Elliott was during COVID when rules were changing and people were hurting- Elliott helped the ORA to lead the charge," said Sig Brown. "He met with regulators multiple times per week, advocating for ORA members, competitors, and anyone from the state who needed help." Distinguished Service Award The Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s Distinguished Service Award honors an outstanding individual who has devoted 15 or more years to a career in the restaurant, foodservice, or hospitality industry. More than a measure of longevity, this award recognizes their steadfast commitment to their employer’s success, and their exceptional service, professionalism, and dedication. Through consistently going above and beyond, they have set a standard of excellence and left a lasting impact on their field. The 2025 Distinguished Service Award was presented to Derrick Shanklin, Chief Operating Officer, Events at Summit Club, who has dedicated eight years to the Summit Club. "Derrick is a natural born servant leader," said Jared Jordan, CEO of the Summit Club & Tulsa Country Club. "His service doesn't just extend to the ultimate customer. Derrick's service to the organization, to his staff, to his coworkers is the thing that makes Derrick such a fantastic leader. He always has time for anyone who works for him." Proceeds from the Hirst Hospitality Awards support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation and these funds support the restaurant community in the form of scholarships to students engaged in culinary, restaurant management, and hospitality-related studies. The program, emceed by Blake Thompson, General Manager The Ellison Hotel, and Kyle Fleischfresser, Owner The Hutch, highlighted distinguished vintner, Ben Casteel of Bethel Heights Vineyard, as the featured guest through Thirst Wine Merchants. Partners included 110 Events; Ben E. Keith Company; Bryant Close; Dr. Pepper; ECOLAB; encore; GoFresh; McGregor Insurance Group; Premium Brands; Thirst Wine Merchants; Republic National Distributing Company; Shake Rattle & Roll; The Skirvin Hilton Hotel; Superior Linen Service and US Foods. Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. Recognizing Excellence: Oklahoma’s Hospitality Stars Honored at the 2024 Hirst Hospitality Awards11/12/2024 Oklahoma City, OK., November 4, 2024— The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) honored over 75 of Oklahoma’s top food service talent at the 25th Anniversary celebration of its Hirst Hospitality Awards. The event took place at The Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City on November 4, where over two hundred and fifty restaurant industry professionals attended to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the 2024 Hirst Hospitality Awards honorees. "Oklahoma's hospitality industry truly shines, and the ORA takes great pride in the last twenty-five years of acknowledging the incredible talent within it," expressed James Leewright, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. "Their dedication and enthusiasm make it effortless to honor these distinguished professionals as worthy recipients." The ORA’s two most prestigious awards - the Distinguished Service Award and the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award - were presented at this year's ceremony. These two distinguished awards represent the highest distinctions given out annually by the ORA, celebrating careers defined by outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the state's hospitality industry. The 2024 Distinguished Service Award was bestowed to Brandon Kistler, Area Partner of Hal Smith Restaurants. Brandon has dedicated 33 years to the food service industry 27 of which have been with Hal Smith Restaurants. This award is presented to an exceptional individual who has dedicated their career to the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality through their outstanding service, professionalism, and dedication, they have consistently set a standard of excellence and making a lasting impact in their field. “Brandon’s commitment to this industry and commitment to the Oklahoma market is really profound” said David Brauckmann, CEO of the Hal Smith Restaurant Group “He has proven to surround himself with people that get the job done.” The Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s Distinguished Industry Leadership Award is given to an exemplary member of the restaurant community who has demonstrated significant leadership and set high standards of excellence. Through their leadership and meaningful contributions, these individuals have made a lasting impact on the industry and strengthened the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. This year’s dual recipients are Hank Kraft and Mike Rogers of Hal Smith Restaurants. These two extraordinary individuals are pivotal figures in Oklahoma's culinary landscape employing more than 6,000 team members and overseeing more than 100 concepts/locations. Through Hank’s leadership of the ORA Governmental Affairs Committee, and Mike’s support of the ORA Golf Classic they've had an impact on ORA advocacy efforts and events. Together they’ve also driven the success of Oklahoma ProStart which is the industry’s connection to education and offering high school students crucial industry exposure and experiences. Their mentorship bridges education with real-world experience, instilling valuable skills in aspiring culinary professionals. "I feel incredibly lucky to have these two individuals, whom I see as one," said Hal Smith. "Together, we've achieved so many amazing things." Honorees from more than 20 restaurants were given a commemorative gift and were eligible for more than $2,000 in raffle prizes and cash awards. Additionally, a $1,000 cash prize was presented to Honoree Jennifer Kindred from Musashi’s Japanese Steakhouse. Proceeds from the Hirst Hospitality Awards support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation and these funds support the restaurant community in the form of scholarships to students engaged in culinary, restaurant management, and hospitality-related studies. The program, emceed by Lance McDaniel, Owner McDaniel Entertainment, highlighted distinguished vintner, Dr. Madaiah Revana of Revana Family Vineyard, as the featured guest through Thirst Wine Merchants. 25th Anniversary Partners included 110 Events; Ben E. Keith Company; Bryan Close; Dr. Pepper; ECOLAB; GoFresh; McGregor Insurance Group; Premium Brands; Thirst Wine Merchants; Republic National Distributing Company; Shake Rattle & Roll; The Skirvin Hilton Hotel; and US Foods. Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. ### Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation's Odyssey de Culinaire ShowcasesTop Chefs and Student Talent7/24/2024 OKLAHOMA – Once the fast-paced night of preparing delicacies alongside noted Oklahoma chefs ended, Chris Kendall, a student at Tulsa Tech Owasso, was finally able to fully soak in the experience.
“This was one of the best nights of my life,” Kendall said. “I never believed we could accomplish this. And we had the opportunity to work with so many amazing chefs. I am excited to see what’s next for me.” What’s next – that’s what the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation’s ProStart program is all about. And the foundation’s Odyssey de Culinaire, two nights of fine-dining events, in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, provides students from across the state the opportunity to work with mentor chefs and to enjoy a peek inside an industry drawing their attention. “Odyssey is absolutely one of my favorite summer events to attend,” said Brenda Pollak, a culinary arts instructor at Pioneer Technology Center. “My students are always so impressed with their mentor chefs, chefs they end up meeting throughout the day of Odyssey and seeing chefs they have met throughout their time in our ProStart program. “It is not every day, especially in our small part of the world, that my students get to experience a dinner of this scale, let alone be a major component in it. It is so special to see the students' eyes light up at the end of the night seeing how their planning, preparations, and hard work paid off.” This year’s Odyssey experience opened in Tulsa’s River Spirit Casino Hotel on July 9. The following week, July 18, at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel, the showcase event moved to Oklahoma City. Attendees were treated to a five-course meal, with each course paired with fine wines presented by Republic National Distributing Company. Some of the state’s finest chefs embrace the opportunity to serve as mentors for discerning students who may one day fill key positions in the industry. In Tulsa, the chef lineup featured Joel Bein (The Meat & Cheese Show), Jeremy Johnson (Food Bank of Northeastern Oklahoma), Stephen Lindstrom (Smoke Woodfire Grill) Austin Plumlee, (Tavern, Bull in the Alley) and Alex Pierce (Southern Hills Country Club). In Oklahoma City, chefs Chris Barton (Skirvin Hilton Hotel), Jeff Chanchaleune (Ma Der Lao Kitchen), Kevin Lee (Birdie’s by Kevin Lee), Brianna Shear (84 Hospitality), Meghan Synco, (Hal Smith Restaurants) and Zak Walters (Sedalia’s) took center stage along with the students. The chefs are paired in their course preparation with high school students who are currently active in ProStart® culinary arts programs in Oklahoma. Funds raised from the event provide the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation, resources to students, teachers and schools who are involved in culinary educational programs. This support includes teacher training and development, materials and resources for student recruitment, assistance with job placement for internships, graduate employment and industry-driven events for hospitality students. “This is the fourth year my school has had an opportunity to participate in the Odyssey de Culinaire,” said Chef Chaya Pennington of Metro Tech. “The experience this event creates is invaluable to reinforcing techniques and expectations of industry standards, giving students a chance to work in real time with esteemed chefs.” A chance to work and learn. And more. “I had such an amazing experience working with my chef, Joel Bein,” said Nikki Longoria, a student at Pioneer Tech. “I want to start my own catering business and having this opportunity with Oklahoma ProStart and Odyssey has given me the courage to work hard and continue learning. I have enjoyed this event and grateful for the chance it’s given me.” Odyssey de Culinaire is an annual celebration organized by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, dedicated to fostering culinary education and growth within the community. The event is held in partnership with Executive Chef Partners Ben E. Keith Co., Republic National Distributing Co., River Spirit Casino Resort, and Skirvin Hilton Hotel, as well as 110 Events, Ecolab, Encore, Funnel Design Group, Legacy Entertainment Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Bryan Close, Capital Distributing, Easy Ice, GoFresh, McGregor Insurance Group, Superior Linen Service and Twisted Tree Baking Company. For more information or to support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation, please visit www.okrestaurants.com. # # # Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. # # # The Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation (OHF) is a charitable organization benefiting the restaurant, lodging, and tourism industries in Oklahoma. As the philanthropic arm of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, the Foundation enhances the industry’s service to the public through education, community engagement, and promotion of career opportunities. The OHF is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, and shall be operated exclusively for the purpose of increasing philanthropy in the state of Oklahoma.
 Tulsa, OK, April 2, 2024 – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa was the epicenter of professional growth and networking on April 1, 2024, as it hosted the Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s(ORA) annual TulsaFest, an event that has once again proven itself to be more than just another industry gathering. With a focus on fostering meaningful connections and delivering unparalleled insights, TulsaFest 2024 set a new standard for professional events in Oklahoma.
Reflecting on the 2024 TulsaFest, James Leewright, CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, shared:"2024 TulsaFest exceeded all expectations, bringing together the brightest minds in our industry for a day of meaningful connection and growth. I'm grateful to everyone who participated, helping make this year's event truly remarkable. The sense of community and passion for our industry's future was palpable, and I look forward to seeing how we continue to grow and innovate together." The day began with the ORA Board of Directors Meeting, setting a tone of leadership and strategic vision. This was followed by a vibrant networking session where attendees had the opportunity to meet and engage with peers, sharing ideas and forging potentially life-changing professional relationships. Lunch & Special Presentations were a highlight, with recognition of the ORA 2024 Key Club Partners, including esteemed organizations 110 Events / Factor 110, AB One / Anheuser-Busch, Adesso Capital, Auto-Chlor Services, Ben E. Keith Company, Bryan Close, Capital Distributing, Cintas, Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper (Keurig), Easy Ice, Ecolab, Inc., GoFresh, Hal Smith Restaurants, Heartland, Image First Laundry Specialists, McGregor Insurance Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Republic National Distributing Co., Southern Glazer's, Superior Linen Service, US Foods, Visit Oklahoma City whose support and dedication are instrumental to the organization’s success. Special presentations by Sean Kouplen, Chairman & CEO of Regent Bank, Oklahoma’s former Secretary of Commerce & Workforce Development and Shelley Zumwalt, Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage offered attendees a deep dive into Oklahoma's economic development and cultural richness. The afternoon sessions, led by keynote speaker Kent Julian, focused on creating a "DREAM TO DO CULTURE" and “Busting Your Signature Moves”. These sessions provided actionable insights and strategies for personal and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of leveraging individual strengths for collective success. Thank you to the 2024 TulsaFest Partners, AB One / Anheuser-Busch, Auto-Chlor System, Ben E. Keith Company, Chandler Hospitality Group, Coca-Cola, Clearwater Energy Services, Dr. Pepper (Keurig), Mazzio's, US Foods, Ecolab, GoFresh, Heartland, ImageFirst Laundry Specialists, McGregor Insurance Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits, and Superior Linen Service. As TulsaFest concludes, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and partners for making this year's event a resounding success. The connections made, knowledge shared, and achievements celebrated have indeed made TulsaFest an extraordinary experience for everyone involved. About TulsaFest TulsaFest is an annual event designed to bring together professionals from across Oklahoma for a day of education, networking, and celebration. Through its dynamic programming and focus on fostering strong community ties, TulsaFest aims to propel career growth and recognize the contributions of industry leaders and partners. ### About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
Edmond Students will travel to Baltimore next to compete for coveted national title and $200,000 in scholarships from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
It's not every day that you get the chance to return to a place that has molded you into the person you are today. Yet, I had the distinct honor to do just that as a 1994 alumnus of Oklahoma State University. I was recently invited to be a guest speaker for Dr. Lisa Slevitch's class at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (OSMHTM). The opportunity to share my journey and insights into the hospitality industry with the bright, aspiring professionals of tomorrow was an experience I hold in high regard.
|
|  James Leewright (ORA President) gavel presentation to Siegmund Brown (ORA Chair) |
ORA Board of Directors include:
Scott Bainbridge, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Seminole
Chad Bearden, Click’s Steakhouse, Pawnee
Joel Bein, The Meat and Cheese Show, Tulsa
Brian Bogert, The Jones Assembly, Oklahoma City
Levi Bouska, The Butcher BBQ Stand, Wellston
Eric Brewer, Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, Oklahoma City
Steven Buck, Mentalitea & Coffee, Bethany
Michael Bujold, Downstream Casino, Quapaw
Jeff Castleberry, The Chowhouse, Tulsa
Steven Clowdus, Hard Rock Casino Tulsa, Catoosa
Kim Danserau, Humankind Hospitality Services, Oklahoma City
Stephen DeGraffenreid, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Shawnee
Andrew Delaney, Chick-Fil-A Claremore, Claremore
Marty Doepke, Traditions Spirits, Norman
Kyle Fleischfresser, The Hutch, Oklahoma City
Robert Founds, Lloyd’s Cuts, Tulsa
John Gaberino III, Topeca Coffee, Tulsa
Tyler Gillespie, Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Norman
Ryan Gray, Billy Sims BBQ, LLC, Tulsa
Kirk Greenwood, Auto-Chlor Services, LLC, Oklahoma City
Steve Griffin, Pearl’s Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Shay Hayes, Viridian Coffee, Duncan
Jeffrey Holloway, Boulevard Steakhouse/Holloway Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Russ Johnson, Ludivine, Oklahoma City
Jared Jordan, Summit Club , Tulsa
Andrea Koester, Holey Rollers & Red Rooster, Oklahoma City
Darren Lister, Hideaway-2, Inc., Tulsa
Seth Nimmo, Rib Crib Corporation, Tulsa
Dave Osborne, Symmetry, Oklahoma City
Adam Rott, Republic National Distributing Company, Oklahoma City
Nich Schaefer, Interurban Restaurants, Norman
Bill Tackett, Bluestone Steakhouse, Tulsa
Blane Thompson, The Ellison Hotel, Oklahoma City
Robby Vernon, Hacienda Tacos, Oklahoma City
Katie Walters, Pete's Place, Krebs
Michael Wehba, The Social Order, Edmond
Jamie Winteroth, Shared Plate Hospitality, Oklahoma City
A number of Associate Board members were also voted in.
About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
###
 |  |
RSS Feed
