Eurest Graduates: Where Are They Now?

Passion, commitment, curiosity. These are just some of the traits shared by Eurest’s Global University for Lifelong Learning graduates.

Earlier this summer, 151 associates from 31 states took to the stage in front of family and colleagues to complete their journey in a 16-week educational development program that creates pathways to salaried and manager positions. The 2024 class was the largest ever and at the time of graduation, 20% of the current class had already been promoted.

The Global University for Lifelong Learning at Eurest began 15 years ago in the Eastern Division and scaled nationwide in 2021. The 2024 graduates join a special group of GULL alumni—82% are still developing their careers with Eurest.

We checked in with a few past graduates to find out what they’ve been up to in the years following their experience, and advice they’d share for future delegates.

Rina Amaya Pena’s career with Eurest began in 2009 as a cashier. At the time her manager nominated her for GULL in 2018, she was a prepCook. Since graduating, Rina has evolved into a strong leader and trusted ally for women in the culinary field. She is a rising star, finishing her GULL year with a promotion to Sous Chef and a succession of promotions to Chef Manager, Executive Chef and now Director of Dining Services.

Mentors are a key part of the GULL experience. I understand you were able to serve as one after you went through the program. What was that like?

Being in the program changed my point of view when I was a mentor. I gave advice but tried to keep her head up – it really brought us closer. She was promoted and is now an Executive Chef. Also, as a manager, I bring this program up to others, especially the women I work with.

What would you say to Associates who are interested in the development opportunity?

It’s the beginning of everything for you.  

Anthony Chibaro always thrived in a fast-paced setting. His restaurant background gave him valuable experience in purchasing, inventory and menus, but his drive comes from within. He joined Eurest in 2019 and was a 2021 graduate of the GULL program. Since then, he’s played a dual role as a Sous Chef and Safety Manager and was recently promoted to Chef Manager at a new marketplace in New Jersey.

From everything you learned, what stands out most?

GULL helps you learn about yourself.

What advice would you give to the next GULL class?

Where do you want to take your success? From my perspective, GULL prepared me. After I graduated, I knew a new chapter was opening. GULL is a start, the gathering of what will be your future. You may not know what it is yet, but now you have what you need to take it to the next level.

Arturo Urbano joined Eurest on the verge of leaving the profession. For more than 20 years, he worked around the clock on weekends and holidays at various restaurants and hotels. Seeking something new, he was referred to Eurest by a friend, and several years later, he became a graduate of GULL. Now the Executive Chef at a marketplace in North Carolina, Arturo credits his former colleague and mentor, Chef Michael Mahony, a Compass Group veteran, for the path he’s on today.

What does being a GULL graduate mean to you?

It means a lot. I am very supported by my team. When I started this job, I didn’t know about corporate dining and I never thought I’d find something like this.

What is a something you learned about yourself from GULL?

To keep learning. I’m still learning.