MFHA Roundtables 2024

Andre Howell, Vice President of Operations, MFHA (Moderator): As MFHA’s “back-of-the-house” leader, Andre Howell wears many hats, but his greatest joy comes from collaborating with members to help advance DEI at their organizations. Before entering the non-profit realm, Andre held a variety of executive positions in the insurance and financial fields, where he established multicultural marketing initiatives that resulted in more than $30 million in new business from people of color. Andre received his B.S. in Marketing and Economics from The King’s College in New York, and a Master of Public Administration from Temple University. He is certified as a Master Diversity Trainer by the Antioch School of Executive Development at Temple University, an EEOC investigator and John Maxwell Executive Life Coach. A recognized leader in community service, Andre volunteers as a mentor to Black and Latino millennials.

Jennifer North, Manager, Operations Excellence, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: Jennifer North leads initiatives to maintain high service standards, supports operational consistency, and drives efficiencies in collaboration with various teams. Starting her journey with Bloomin’ Brands as a Bartender, Jennifer rose through the ranks to become a Regional Training Manager, supporting more than 40 restaurants. Her career reflects a deep commitment to personal growth and the development of others. Jennifer is also co-chair and chair of Bloomin’ Balance, an Employee Resource Group. As a leader in the Health & Wellness Employee Resource Group, Jennifer focuses on fostering a sense of community, encouraging open dialogue, and supporting both personal well-being and professional development. She believes ERGs play a critical role in helping employees feel connected and empowered, ultimately driving organizational success.

Hillary Hodges, Senior Manager, Training & Operations, Outback Steakhouse: Hillary Hodges leads the development and implementation of core training initiatives and service standards while fostering the professional growth and development of restaurant leaders. Hillary started her Outback journey 18 years ago as a Hostess, advancing her career through operations before transitioning to the Restaurant Support Center in 2012. Her career journey, alongside her personal mental health journey, reflects her passion and drive to help others be the best version of themselves. Hillary also serves as the Co-Chair for the Employee Resource Group, Bloomin’ Balance. Her dedication to bringing awareness to employee’s mental health and determination to remove the stigma around the conversation has led to constructive and powerful conversations, countless shared resources, and a sense of community and support for others.

Erika Cospy Carr, MBA, Vice President, MFHA (Moderator): Erika Carr is a seasoned executive and diversity champion with nearly 20 years of experience driving transformational strategies across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. As the leader of MFHA, Erika will leverage her strategic acumen and DEI experience to ensure initiatives effectively address industry challenges and create tangible impact. As Founder and CEO of Cospy Concepts, LLC, she spearheaded numerous DEI initiatives to help organizations deliver better business outcomes. At Year Up, Erika also led initiatives to increase diversity at every level and optimized operational performance at the National Association of Black Accountants and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. A proud HBCU grad, Erika holds a BA in Business Administration from Bennett College and an MBA from University of Phoenix. She holds certificates in Design Leadership, Project Management and Executive Business Communication.

Lauren Genovese, Senior Manager, DEI, Rich’s Products: Lauren Genovese leads Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Rich Products, partnering with leaders and teams across the enterprise to cultivate an equitable and inclusive, people-first culture. A 11-year Rich’s veteran, she has been instrumental in developing strategy and initiatives to advance associates, strengthen equity and better support customers, suppliers and communities. Since joining Rich’s in 2013, Lauren has worked across HR, new product development and innovation, sustainability and more, gaining valuable insight into the day-to-day experiences of Rich’s associates. This has been crucial in helping her create strategies that drive meaningful change and exceptional experiences. In 2024, Lauren was honored as a ‘Change Maker’ by the Women’s Foodservice Forum – a recognition of women who are driving strong business results and exemplify inclusive leadership. A dedicated advocate for Rich’s associates, Lauren leads with empathy and a deep passion for celebrating individuality to create a better tomorrow.

Damian Hanft, Vice President Training & Team Member Activation, Inspire Brands: Damian Hanft leads the talent experience at Inspire Brands. As a teacher and a learner, Damian believes that successful teams are developed through authenticity, radical candor and a lot of laughter. He is passionate about building innovative talent and learning teams in growth-centric environments, while developing an authentic culture that attracts and develops world-class talent. He has held leadership positions in training, talent management, labor relations and learning and development. Damian currently serves as the president for CHART, the hospitality and training association and as an advisory board member for MFHA. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin. He has participated in five 200-mile Chefs Cycle rides for Share Our Strength. 

Anna Carver, Senior Manager Communications & Marketing, MFHA: Anna Carver develops and manages communications strategies, marketing campaigns, and member programming for MFHA. With more than 14 years of communications expertise in the non-profit association sector, she has an uncanny ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders in the foodservice and restaurant industry. Anna earned her M.B.A. from Boise State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from the University of Georgia. She is a member of the American Marketing Association. In her free time, Anna is section leader and percussionist for Batalá Washington, a non-profit, all-women, Afro-Brazilian drum band.