USA. Airport restaurateur Paradies Lagardère has launched its new restaurant hospitality internship programme in partnership with Georgia State University.
This new programme is in honour of the career of Paradies Lagardère’s former President of Dining, Regynald G. Washington.
A highly regarded industry figure, Washington has a passion for excellence and continues to mentor others to do the same, the company said. He has worked for various organisations such as The Walt Disney Company, Hojeij Branded Foods, and Paradies Lagardère, among others. He was also an elected officer and board member of the National Restaurant Association and a recipient of the Gold Plate Award by the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association.
Sponsored by Paradies Lagardère, the paid internship offers 12 weeks of education and valuable experience to a Georgia State student each semester and includes a dedicated mentor and advisor.
Through an interview process, the company has already handpicked a Georgia State University student, Diamond Webb, to join the Spring 2023 internship programme that started in late January.
Providing a real-world experience, the programme will allow Webb to gain exposure to general business and management practices while working at Paradies Lagardère’s restaurant operations at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The programme also involves an in-depth overview of the corporate operations in Paradies Lagardère’s Atlanta offices. These support the organisation’s more than 175 restaurants across 41 markets in North America.
Paradies Lagardère Senior Vice President of Dining Claude Guillaume said: “Our organisation thrives on supporting the next generation of airport hospitality professionals and is very excited about this new internship and partnership with Georgia State University.”
He added: “Regynald Washington has always been a great inspiration for young professionals, and we are honoured to continue that tradition by supporting the education and future career of such an ambitious and talented student as Ms. Webb.”
Georgia State University Director and Associate Professor Debra Cannon also commented: “The Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality in the Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University is honoured to be selected for the inaugural Regynald G. Washington Internship program offered by Paradies Lagardère.
“Internships are pivotal points for students in opening their eyes to new career options and learning from experienced professionals. This program is the ideal way to honour Mr. Washington and his distinguished food service career.” ✈
Note: The Moodie Davitt Report publishes the FAB Newsletter, which features highlights of openings, events and campaigns from around the world of airport and travel dining. Please email Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com to subscribe.
