Pride in Foodservice Week
February 3 – 7, 2025
Pride in Foodservice Week applauds nutrition and foodservice professionals and other members of the nutritional team for their hard work and dedication on the job.
This year we will be thanking our staff as well as featuring our staff and why they are proud to be a part of the food service industry and the NC State Dining team.
STAFF FEATURES
Culinary Excellence: Sous Chef Matt Bermenez’s Competition Success
Sous Chef Matt Bermenez recently won the campus culinary competition “Bowlin Outta Control” with his Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Inspired by his own experiences with food allergies, Matt seized the opportunity to showcase his talents creating an allergen friendly masterpiece. Learn more about his journey, his advice for aspiring chefs, and how this experience shaped his role at NC State Dining.
Chris Hawkins: Creating Meaningful Cultural Events at NC State Dining
Chris Hawkins, University Towers , spearheaded a weekly Black History Month dinner series at University Towers Dining Hall. Inspired by his experiences as “Mop Top,” the Hip Hop Scientist, Chris uses these dinners to honor African American contributions to the foodservice industry and foster community through culturally significant dishes. With the support of his team, including chefs Sean Mangroo and Erica Glasco, Chris has crafted menus that blend history and innovation. Read more about Chris’s journey and the lasting impact of these events on the NC State community.
Health + Wellness Advocates: Melanie Bermenez + India Harris
Melanie Bermenez and India Harris recently completed the AllerTrain certification. Their commitment exemplifies NC State Dining’s core values of ensuring every student feels safe and supported. Through their training, both have gained valuable insights into managing allergen-friendly offerings and preventing cross-contamination, enhancing their ability to safeguard student health. Melanie recalls a pivotal moment when her quick action protected a student with celiac, while India shares how the certification has empowered her in running allergen-conscious stations.
Pack Pride in Action: Shelley Kelly
Shelley Kelly, Unit Manager at the Exchange Café, exemplifies Pack Pride through her dedication and meaningful connections with both students and staff. Shelley’s passion for her work and team quickly led to her advancement. Shelley’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment and her resilient leadership serve as an inspiration to all who work with her. Click below to learn about one of her proudest moments at NC State.
Sustainability Spotlight: Nikki Nguyen
Nikki Nguyen’s commitment to sustainability is rooted in innovation, conservation, and long-term responsibility. She leads initiatives like WOWW (Watch Our Waste Wednesday), which educates students on waste sorting to reduce pollution, and works to expand recycling and composting efforts across campus. Nikki also curates Instagram posts promoting local ingredients used in the dining halls.