MFHA Roundtables 2025

Erika Cospy Carr is a dynamic leader and champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion with nearly 20 years of experience across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Known for her authentic leadership style and ability to build impactful relationships, Erika consistently delivers exceptional outcomes for clients, customers, and communities. As the leader of the Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA), Erika  leverages her strategic acumen and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) experience to ensure initiatives effectively address industry challenges and create tangible impact. Erika’s leadership will be pivotal in advancing MFHA’s goals and reinforcing its commitment to creating a more equitable industry for all.

Dynisha Klugh is an HR leader who fosters inclusive workplaces. As a change expert, Dynisha has successfully led cultural transformation initiatives that enhanced employee engagement. Dynisha will share strategies and tactics that help maintain a focus on people, even while operating in an ever-changing business landscape. Her expertise is anchored in extensive experience ranging from knowledge management, change management, project management, human resources, and talent development. Dynisha holds a Bachelor’s degree in IT and an MBA with a concentration in Environmental Management.

Under Gifford’s leadership, the Foundation has expanded its mission to support the nation’s restaurant workers and create job and career opportunities for people of all backgrounds. In February 2021, Gifford was recognized by Nation’s Restaurant News the Power List: Reader’s Picks, as one of “The Most Influential Solutions Providers and Operators in the Country.” The NRAEF was also awarded a Power of “A” Gold Award from the American Society of Association Executives for its mission to “Create a Competitive Workforce.” Gifford’s career spans more than 25 years of advocacy and public policy experience. Before joining the National Restaurant Association and the NRAEF, Gifford served as the President and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA). During his tenure, MRA was voted one of the five most effective association-lobbying organizations in Michigan, and Gifford was presented with the MRA’s Vision and Leadership Award. Gifford began his career working in the United States Senate, where he served for seven years on the staff of Senator Robert W. Kasten (R-Wi). A graduate of the University of Maryland, Gifford has served as Chairman of the International Society of Restaurant Association Executives (ISRAE), as an officer on the Council of State Restaurant Associations (CSRA), and on the Boards of the National Restaurant Association, National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Society of Association Executives.

Since joining Cracker Barrel in 2020, Gaby Ivey has worked to change the dialog with senior leadership to focus on the human element, which is a critical factor in driving change and achieving optimal levels of success within an organization. She has served in leadership roles in learning and development for several organizations such as Comcast Cable, Unisys, and Tupperware Brands. Gaby is a solid partner to senior management, designing and implementing innovative programs and initiatives that have consistently strengthened internal competencies, reduced costs, streamlined operations, and delivered measurable improvements to bottom-line productivity. She holds a bachelor’s in Organizational Management from Midway College and a master’s of Education in Human Resource Development from Xavier University.