
Our History
Since 1996, MFHA has been making the business case for diversity and inclusion in the foodservice & hospitality industry. Over the years, MFHA has evolved its mission from advocating for career opportunities for people of color, to building Cultural Intelligence.
Gerry Fernandez gathers 17 companies to discuss the creation of MFHA to promote the advancement of people of color in the foodservice industry.
1996
1997
MFHA is officially incorporated. Gerry Fernandez becomes loaned executive from General Mills to run MFHA full time.
First National Biennial Conference in San Diego, CA. Herman Cain, President & CEO, The National Restaurant Association and Frank Belatti, CEO, AFC Enterprises were keynote speakers at this conference focused on the economic benefits of multiculturalism.
1998
1999
Published the first-ever Diverse Supplier Directory for the Foodservice & Hospitality Industry.
Showcase of the Stars™ Conducted the very first event in Chicago.
2000
2001
Releases first-ever Benchmark Survey of Diverse Practices with Nation’s Restaurant News and the Coca-Cola Company.
Joe Lee, Chairman & CEO of Darden Restuarants wins The Ernest H. Royal Pioneer Award.
2002
2003
Alice Elliot, CEO, The Elliot Group chairs Panel ever MFHA Symposium of CEO’s at the firstin Dallas, TX
Sed de Saber is introduced to the industry with support from Coca-Cola, Brinker International and Retention Education
2004
2005
2nd MFHA Report to industry is released.
10-year Anniversary Conference in Boston, MA
2006
2010
MFHA Ollin Conference
- Gerry on NRN’s 50 Power List
- Released “Website Cultural Inclusiveness Assessment”
- First CI Operators’ Conf
2014
2015
- Powers first “Cultural Intelligence SmartBrief”
- Launches African American eLearning
- Showcase of the Stars™ at DECA Conf
Marks 20th year as the only Cultural Intelligence organization for the industry
Marks 20th year as the only Cultural Intelligence organization for the industry
2016
Currently
Still the only cultural intelligence expert in the foodservice & hospitality industry.