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Edmond North High School, Edmond Santa Fe High School Win Oklahoma State Championship in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Advance to Nationals

2/23/2024

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

Oklahoma City, OK – February 23, 2024 – Teams from Edmond North High School and Edmond Santa Fe High School earned their spot among the next generation of restaurant innovators and culinarians when they captured the Ben E. Keith Oklahoma ProStart Student Invitational. With their win, the students will travel to Baltimore to compete in the national championship in April.

Congratulations to our winners:
1st Place Culinary – Edmond North High School
1st Place Management – Edmond Santa Fe High School

Both teams represent Oklahoma’s best and brightest culinary and restaurant management students and were awarded Scholarships from the Culinary Institute of America. As state champions, they will move on to compete at the 2024 National ProStart Invitational, to be held April 26-28 in Baltimore, where they will face off against fellow winning teams from nearly all 50 states. The top five teams in each national competition category will then take home a combined $200,000 in scholarships to support their future careers.

Congratulations to our 2nd place winners:
2nd Place Culinary – Francis Tuttle Technology Center
2nd Place Management – Edmond North High School

Thank you to the partner of the 2024 Ben E. Keith Oklahoma Prostart Student Invitational! Ben E. Keith, Oklahoma ProStart National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, Metro Tech, The Culinary Institute of America, Bryan Close, GoFresh, ECOLAB, and Superior Linen Service.

ProStart is a nationwide high school career and technical education program from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation that reaches nearly 165,000 students at almost 1,850 schools each year – equipping them with the restaurant industry’s best two-year Certified Training and Education Program to jumpstart their culinary careers while still in high school. Over the last 24 years, over 1 million high school students nationwide have received career-building training through ProStart’s curriculum, which merges hands on restaurant and culinary experience with classroom instruction.

Across Oklahoma, there are 24 technology centers or high schools with ProStart curriculum with over 1200 students enrolled in one or two-year programs.

It’s such a great privilege to host an event like this that shines a light on the developing talent. It’s here we see real-world skills demonstrated at the ProStart Student Invitational, said Roberta Helsley, Director of Workforce Development and Education at the ORA. “Across Oklahoma, management and culinary skills are honed in the classroom that will lead to jobs in restaurants, hotels and entertainment attractions. It’s extremely gratifying to help students reach their goals, working in Oklahoma’s hospitality industry.” We are supported by many of Oklahoma’s premiere restaurateurs and chefs as ProStart judges and mentors. Our team always receives great feedback from these volunteers and the caliber of students who participate in the ProStart competition,“ continued Helsley.

“I am always inspired by the dedication and innovation that ProStart teams display during competition. ProStart’s true strength lies in the skills students take away from it, which will benefit them throughout life – no matter where they work. I’m truly excited to welcome these champions to Baltimore in April,” said Rob Gifford, president of the NRAEF.

For more information on the ProStart® program, visit ChooseRestaurants.org/ProStart or find us on X or Facebook.

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About ProStart®
ProStart®, a nationwide, two-year high school career and technical education program uniting the classroom and restaurant industry, reaches nearly 165,000 students at almost 1,850 high schools throughout all states, the District of Columbia and Guam. ProStart gives students a platform to discover and develop new interests and talents, while teaching employability skills like teamwork, professional behavior, time management and communication.

About the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF)
As the supporting philanthropic foundation of the National Restaurant Association, the NRAEF’s charitable mission includes enhancing the industry’s training and education, career development, and community engagement efforts. The NRAEF and its programs work to Attract, Empower, and Advance today’s and tomorrow’s restaurant and foodservice workforce. NRAEF programs include: ProStart® – a high-school career and technical education program; Restaurant Ready/HOPES – Partnering with community based organizations to provide people with skills training and job opportunities; Military – helping military servicemen and women transition their skills to restaurant and foodservice careers; Scholarships – financial assistance for students pursuing restaurant, foodservice and hospitality degrees; and the Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center (RHLC) – accredited apprenticeship programs designed to build the careers of service professionals. For more information on the NRAEF, visit ChooseRestaurants.org. Click here for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s 2022 Annual Impact Report.

James Leewright returns to his Alma Mater to Inspire Future Hospitality Professionals

2/15/2024

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.

The field of hospitality has always been close to my heart. It's an industry that is not just about business transactions, but about creating experiences, nurturing relationships, and ensuring the comfort of others. My own work history, woven with diverse roles and challenges, has been a testament to the dynamic and rewarding nature of this field. Discussing this with the students, I aimed to illuminate the myriad of opportunities that await them – from hotel and event management to tourism and culinary arts.

Dr. Lisa Slevitch, a respected figure in hospitality education, has crafted a curriculum that not only teaches the fundamentals but also encourages critical thinking and innovation. Her dedication to student success is palpable and being able to contribute to her class was a privilege. I shared anecdotes, lessons learned, and advice gleaned from years of experience. But more than that, I sought to inspire a sense of excitement and possibility for what lies ahead in their careers.

Engaging with the students, answering their questions, and seeing their enthusiasm for the subject matter was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me of my own days at Oklahoma State University, filled with curiosity and aspirations. The university has always fostered a supportive and enriching environment, and it's heartening to see that tradition continue.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Slevitch and the entire OSMHTM department for this opportunity. It was not only a chance to give back but also a moment to reflect on my own journey and how far I have come since my days at OSU. To the students, I say: the world of hospitality is vast and full of potential. Embrace every opportunity, stay passionate, and never stop learning.

To my fellow OSU alumni, I encourage you to engage with current students and share your stories and insights. There is no greater legacy than contributing to the growth and development of those who follow in our footsteps.

Thank you, Oklahoma State University, for yet another unforgettable experience. Go Pokes!
James Leewright
CEO Oklahoma Restaurant Association

Oklahoma Restaurant Association Announces 2024 Board of Directors

2/7/2024

ORA 2024 Executive Committee

The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) announced its 2024 Board of Directors at its annual meeting on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.

"We extend a heartfelt welcome to each of these esteemed industry leaders, acknowledging the honor it is to serve as a director. Their involvement as vital links in our mission to support the industry, through engagement with the foodservice and hospitality industry across Oklahoma, is greatly valued," expressed James Leewright, President & CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association.

The ORA has elected the following directors for 2024, who represent membership around the state.

Officers & Executive Committee Members:
Chair - Siegmund Brown, SERVEGROUP, LLC, Tulsa
Vice Chair/Treasurer - Robert Williams, Eskimo Joe’s, Stillwater
2nd Vice Chair - J Mays, Café 7 Delicatessen & Pastaria, Oklahoma City
Executive Committee- At-Large -Amy Moss, McGill’s, Sand Springs
Executive Committee- At-Large -Alex Stodghill, GoFresh Produce, Tulsa

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.
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Oklahoma Restaurant AssociationAnnounces 2024 Board of Directors

2/6/2024

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. - The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) announced its 2024 Board of Directors at its annual meeting on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.

"We extend a heartfelt welcome to each of these esteemed industry leaders, acknowledging the honor it is to serve as a director. Their involvement as vital links in our mission to support the industry, through engagement with the foodservice and hospitality industry across Oklahoma, is greatly valued," expressed James Leewright, President & CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association.

The ORA has elected the following directors for 2024, who represent membership around the state.

Officers & Executive Committee Members:
Chair - Siegmund Brown, SERVEGROUP, LLC, Tulsa
Vice Chair/Treasurer - Robert Williams, Eskimo Joe’s, Stillwater
2nd Vice Chair - J Mays, Café 7 Delicatessen & Pastaria, Oklahoma City
Executive Committee- At-Large -Amy Moss, McGill’s, Sand Springs
Executive Committee- At-Large -Alex Stodghill, GoFresh Produce, Tulsa

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.

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