Eleven students enrolled in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were chosen from 130 applicants to participate in the second cohort of the Aramark HBCU Emerging Leaders Program.
Launched in 2023 in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the HBCU community, the Aramark HBCU Emerging Leaders take part in a two-day immersion at Aramark’s headquarters in Philadelphia, PA, to focus on career exploration and professional development.
“What truly elevated this journey was the invaluable opportunity to learn from an inspiring and supportive community of Black professionals, significantly shaping my perspective and enriching my understanding of hospitality.”
In late February, students had the opportunity to network with Aramark leaders, engage in planned simulations, participate in discussions about internships and post-graduation career opportunities, and provide Aramark with vital consumer insights.
“We are committed to ensuring that students have meaningful experiences that help them not only learn but thrive as they embark on their careers,” said Camille Mosley, Vice President for HBCU Engagement, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality. “We are privileged to be a part of that journey and excited to welcome the latest class of highly motivated, engaged students to the program.”
Emerging Leaders Class of 2024
- Tianni Carson, Howard University
- Andreya Christopher, Howard University
- Uche Chukwuezi, Fayetteville State University – S2L
- Qua’Nisha Clemons, Elizabeth City State University
- Ta’Niyah Harris, Bowie State University
- Kayla Smith, Virginia State University
- Aamira Southerland, Southern University and A&M College – A2L
- Celine Trombi, Delaware State University
- Jalaysha Tucker, North Carolina Central University
- Javier Velasquez Ramirez, Morgan State University – S2L
- Timothy Wiley, Morgan State University - A2L
In addition to being HBCU Emerging Leaders, several students are currently engaged in other Aramark development programs, including the Step Up to Leadership (S2L) paid internship program and Accelerate to Leadership (A2L) initiative for graduates and those about to graduate.
“As a young woman with an innovative mind, it’s important to find a company where I can keep my light. I learned that at Aramark my voice matters. My future matters.”
The immersive HBCU Emerging Leaders Program in 2024 included meetings with Aramark executives and members of the company’s LEAD employee resource group dedicated to team members who self-identify as Black, African American, West Indian, or of African descent, as well as allies. The visit coincided with the LEAD Summit and Awards, held annually during Black History Month.
“We are proud to be a part of Aramark … and proud that our students are here,” said Dr. Harry Williams, President and CEO, TMCF, in remarks he made at the LEAD Summit in Philadelphia. “I know the quality that our students possess. I know excellence. Every single day when our students walk on these campuses, I know that they're getting up focused to be the best.”
“Students were immersed in different activities, and the company's employees created a familial and positive culture. This is a program I recommend to all majors because of how much opportunity there is in Aramark in terms of jobs and professional growth overall.”
Emerging Career Development Opportunities
The HBCU Emerging Leaders toured Aramark headquarters; met and interacted with executives, Aramark employees who graduated from HBCUs, and their Program mentor “Buddies;” attended career development sessions; and joined Aramark teams for simulated work experiences to further immerse themselves in the industry and their chosen careers.
The fully sponsored HBCU Emerging Leaders Program is open to students majoring in hospitality, culinary arts, business management, economics, marketing, information technology, retail management, human resources, supply chain management, accounting, finance, project management, and management information systems.
The Program is open to all currently enrolled HBCU students regardless of race, national origin, or any other legally protected characteristics. Eligible students are those who have faced challenges including, but not limited to, life situations in which their opportunities were diminished significantly by factors beyond their control, such as socio-economic status, discrimination, sparse academic resources or opportunities, and/or other similar adverse circumstances on their path to a hospitality company career.
“This is one of the most important moments of my life. Being able to listen to the leadership at Aramark and interact, it aligns with my goals. You care about people and work in the service of people – it's exactly why I got into this field.”
A Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
In addition to encouraging students moving into careers that are supported and celebrated throughout Aramark, the Emerging Leaders Program is also aligned with Aramark’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Working to strengthen a diverse talent pipeline, Aramark proudly supports HBCUs and is committed to an equitable workplace and to engaging employees and building trust in an environment where differences are valued.
“Truly successful businesses thrive in diversity and the inclusion of all people. Being able to bring your authentic self and culture to a business is what the glue is to a business.“
