In a virtual ceremony held on April 12, 2024, Aramark Healthcare+ celebrated the graduation of 17 interns from its Dietetic Internship Program for the class of 2023-24. The event, attended by family, friends, and Aramark executives, marked the culmination of eight months of hard work, study, and practical experience for the graduates.
Dietetic Internship Director, Roxanne Kingston, and Dietetic Internship Manager, Donna Michael, hosted the ceremony, while Scott Bender, Vice President of the HC+ Center of Excellence, and HC+ President & CEO, Bart Kaericher, shared inspirational words with the outgoing class.
Bart Kaericher praised the graduates, saying, “congratulations on this significant achievement. Your commitment and the long hours you’ve invested in our program are truly commendable. As you step forward, remember that the knowledge and memories gained will always be a cherished part of your career. Well done!”
For over 30 years, future registered dietitian nutritionists have chosen the Aramark Dietetic Internship Program to launch their careers. The program’s goal is to guide interns through clinical and management rotations, providing them with the necessary foundation to pass the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam.
The 32-week program runs two sessions each year, with graduating classes in April and October. Another internship class is currently in session, and a new one will begin in August.
During the program, interns are paired with preceptors who are dedicated to training the future registered dietitian nutritionists. Preceptors are selected for interns at locations where an intern lives and wants to pursue a future position in dietetics.
Jose Alvaraz, Food Service Manager at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Centennial in Frisco, Texas, received special recognition as the “2024 Preceptor of the Year” by the Aramark Dietetic Internship Program. Jose’s dedication and contributions between August 2023 and April 2024 exemplify the program’s commitment to training future registered dietitian nutritionists.
Ayah Alzoubi and Katelyn Granvold – who are part of our 2023/2024 Dietetic Internship graduating class—shared why they nominated Jose for this honor:
“Jose's exemplary leadership has taught me how to foster a positive and supportive environment within a team, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with respect, empathy, and appreciation. Overall, Jose's mentorship has positively shaped my growth in my work life,” said Alzoubi.
“Jose is a great mentor, teacher, and leader. He has walked me through all areas of the kitchen, allowed me to take on management tasks, and taught me valuable skills inside and outside the kitchen,” added Granvold. “I have been given so many opportunities to learn and grow as an intern. Jose cares for his staff like family and goes above and beyond every day to make sure everything is in place and taken care of.”
