Atlanta, GA – February 1, 2025 – Hospitality Forward, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to workforce development in the hospitality and culinary industries, proudly announces Sean Rush as its new Executive Director. Under his leadership, the organization is setting forth an ambitious agenda to revolutionize youth development, workforce training, and leadership advancement in hospitality.

A Vision for the Future: Elevating Hospitality Education

As Executive Director, Sean Rush will spearhead initiatives that empower the next generation of hospitality professionals. In response to a growing shortage of skilled workers, Hospitality Forward is committed to bridging the gap through innovative programming, financial assistance, and real-world learning experiences.

Sean Rush brings extensive experience in hospitality operations, leadership development, and strategic partnerships. As Vice President of the Shular Institute and a driving force behind Shular Hospitality Group, he has played a pivotal role in crafting education and workforce training programs that blend real-world experience, mentorship, and industry-driven curriculum

Key Goals for 2025 and Beyond:

• Immediate Impact: Raise $2,000,000 by the end of 2025 to provide tuition-free education at The Shular Institute for 10 deserving students.
• Long-Term Vision: Secure $5 million over the next three years to fully fund 100 aspiring culinary students, shaping the future of the industry.
• Workforce Development: Expand Brigade Jr. Academy, providing hands-on hospitality and culinary education to youth aged 14-17 through partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club of Milwaukee, Angel Tree, and Dekalb County Schools.
• Innovation & AI Integration: Launch the Hospitality Innovation and Technology (H.I.T.) Accelerator in collaboration with Microsoft and Compass Group, ensuring students gain cutting-edge tech-driven hospitality skills.
• Industry Engagement: Host Small Spoons: A Taste of the Teens Food Festival, bringing together young chefs and industry mentors in a dynamic showcase of culinary talent.

Past Accomplishments: A Legacy of Impact

Hospitality Forward has already made a significant mark in hospitality education:

• Launched the Battle of the Brigades, a hands-on competition that immerses high school culinary students in the real-world restaurant experience.
• Established strategic partnerships with leading organizations, including Prison Fellowship, Dekalb County CTAE, and The Shular Institute, to expand opportunities for students.
• Successfully engaged over 100 youth annually in industry-driven training programs.

Join the Movement: Support Hospitality Forward

Hospitality Forward is calling on industry leaders, donors, and partners to join this transformative journey. Your support can directly impact the lives of aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals, equipping them with the tools and opportunities to succeed.

To contribute or learn more, please visit HospitalityForward.org or contact info@hospitalityforward.org.

“We are building the workforce of tomorrow by investing in the passion and talent of today. I invite the hospitality community to stand with us in shaping the future of this industry.”

— Sean Rush, Executive Director, Hospitality Forward

About Hospitality Forward

Hospitality Forward is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing hospitality and culinary education through scholarships, hands-on training, and industry partnerships. With a mission to bridge the workforce gap, the organization provides tuition-free education, youth programming, and leadership development opportunities to aspiring professionals.

For media inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact info@hospitalityforward.org.