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Each year, the Be a Star Awards recognize individuals and teams who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional experiences, support their communities, and embody our values in action.
Our 2026 winners represent the very best of Chartwells. From frontline associates and culinary leaders to operational innovators and account teams, these honorees have made a meaningful impact on students, clients, colleagues, and campuses across the country.
This fall, they’ll be honored at the Compass Night of Stars in Orlando, Florida in recognition of their outstanding contributions and the difference they make each day.
For Heather Conway, leadership begins with people.
As Director of Operations at NYU Eats, Heather oversees some of the university’s busiest residential dining locations, serving more than one million guests each year while leading a team of more than 150 associates. What truly sets her apart is her ability to create a culture rooted in positivity, hospitality, and inclusion.
Heather’s colleagues describe her as a joyful presence who leads with empathy, grace, and consistency. Beyond daily operations, she champions associate development, leads hospitality training initiatives, and supports programs that create opportunities for associates with disabilities. Her commitment to people, service, and community makes her a deserving recipient of the 2026 JoyFulAward.
Across Catawba College, Joe Kelso is known simply as “Mr. Pizza.”
But his impact reaches far beyond the pizza station. Joe has become a beloved member of the campus community by building meaningful relationships with students and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and valued.
Whether sharing an encouraging word, remembering a student’s name, or simply bringing positive energy to the dining hall, Joe embodies the spirit of hospitality. His genuine care for others earned him recognition as Catawba College’s Staff Member of the Year and now the 2026 Frontline JoyFul Award.
Verdist Poindexter exemplifies what it means to live our values every day.
Since joining Chartwells in 2005, he has built a reputation for integrity, compassion, and service. Students, faculty, staff, and guests know him as someone who consistently treats others with respect and kindness while making a positive difference in the campus community.
His commitment to helping others extends well beyond the workplace. Alongside his wife, Verdist supports individuals experiencing homelessness and serves as a foster parent, opening his home to children in need. His selfless dedication to others and unwavering commitment to service make him a remarkable recipient of the Values in Action Award.
Rodie Kiiza’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and leadership.
After joining Fisher Dining as a dishwasher, Rodie steadily expanded her skills and became a trusted cook, trainer, mentor, and problem-solver. Today, she is known as someone teammates can always rely on, whether supporting a busy service, training a new employee, or helping bridge communication barriers across a diverse workforce.
Her willingness to learn, improve processes, and support others has strengthened the entire operation. Through humility, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Rodie demonstrates the true meaning of frontline culinary leadership.
Tony Morano’s impact is felt across Chartwells Higher Education.
Throughout the past year, Tony played a critical role in driving business results, strengthening operational partnerships, and supporting major new business wins, including successful pursuits at the University of South Florida and George Mason University.
Known for his strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and ability to develop solutions that benefit clients and operations alike, Tony consistently demonstrates what it means to live the Chartwells brand. His commitment to excellence and partnership makes him a worthy recipient of the Living the Brand Award.
Chef George Charbel has transformed dining at George Mason University through innovation, leadership, and an unwavering focus on the guest experience.
Under his leadership, meal plan participation increased, guest satisfaction scores improved, and more than 45 branded culinary experiences were introduced in a single semester. At the same time, he delivered remarkable financial results while maintaining a strong focus on food quality and creativity.
Just as importantly, Chef George is committed to mentoring the next generation of culinary talent, helping future leaders grow through guidance and opportunity. His ability to balance innovation, operational excellence, and people development earned him the title of 2026 Chef of the Year.
For more than two decades, David Arluna has been a driving force behind Gourmet Dining’s success at NJIT.
Beginning his career as a controller and growing into the role of Resident District Manager, David has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to client success. His guidance has helped sustain one of Gourmet Dining’s longest-standing partnerships while fostering strong relationships with both colleagues and campus stakeholders.
Known as a trusted mentor and respected leader, David exemplifies the dedication and brand stewardship celebrated by the Gourmet Dining Brand Champion Award.
Since joining Southwestern College in 2017, Kim Regier has built a reputation as a leader who puts people first.
Through every stage of her career, from team member to Director of Dining Services, Kim has been recognized for her positivity, integrity, and unwavering commitment to supporting those around her. Colleagues describe her as someone who leads by example, steps in wherever needed, and inspires others through both her actions and attitude.
Her passion for service and dedication to students, associates, and the campus community make her a true Difference Maker.
The University of Pittsburgh earned Account of the Year through a remarkable year of growth, innovation, and partnership.
Building on a strong six-year collaboration with the university, the Pitt Eats team delivered exceptional results across the board, including significant sales growth, increased meal plan participation, enhanced student satisfaction, and nationally recognized dining programs.
From innovative new dining concepts and major campus investments to award-winning sustainability initiatives and industry-leading partnerships, the team consistently demonstrated what is possible when operational excellence and client collaboration come together. Their success has elevated the student experience while strengthening Chartwells’ partnership with the university, making Pitt a deserving recipient of this year’s top account honor.
🌟 The Be A Star Awards highlight the people and teams who make Chartwells Higher Education a leader in campus dining. Whether serving students on the front lines, mentoring colleagues, driving innovation, or strengthening client partnerships, each winner represents our commitment to hospitality, excellence, and purpose.
Congratulations to our 2026 Be A Star winners. Thank you for the passion, dedication, and heart you bring to our organization every day.
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