Professional work is focused on dining administration, restaurant development and design, and leadership development of dining staff members. Rich has a strong interest in local agriculture and the development of partnerships with local farmers and ranchers. He believes that success in the restaurant and catering business is based on four fundamental principles: culinary excellence, service excellence, a strong business plan, and safety and sanitation.
Education
Bachelor of Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Administration, Washington State University, Pullman, Washingon. January 1974
Bachelor of Arts, General Studies, Washington State University. Pullman, Washington. June, 1970
Focus: History and Social Science
Work Experience
- Dining Administration & Residential Conferences: 2003-present
- Dining Administration & College Inn: 2002-2004
- Dining Administration: 1991-2002
- Owner Operator Restaurant and Catering Company: 1985-1991
- Dining Manager and Assistant Professor, Washington State University: 1976-1985
- Restaurant General Manager, Tia Maria Restaurants: 1974-1976
Awards
- Ivy Award, May 2009
- Student Affairs Service Award – Oregon State University, Spring 2004
Presentations
- NACUFS National Conference Meal Plan Roundtable Facilitator, 2004-2008
- Farm to Fork Conference, “Challenges and Opportunities of Selling to Institutions”, 2007
- OUS Sustainability Conference, “Buying Local”, 2008
- Farm to Fork Conference, “Challenges and Opportunities of Selling to Institutions”, 2008
- NACUFS National Conference, Seattle, “Benchmarking”, 2006
- NACUFS Regional Conference, Vancouver, “Benchmarking”, 2007
- NACUFS Regional Conference, Couer d’Alene, “Benchmarking”, 2008
- NACUFS Regional Conference, Portland, "Manufacturing a Branded Concept", 2011
Consulting
- Yavapai College, Prescott, Arizona: Professional Practice Review
- University of Oregon Erb Memorial Union: Business Practices Review
Committee Participation
- NACUFS National Benchmarking Committee
- Chemeketa Hospitality Program Board of Advisors, 2001-2011
- Corvallis & Philomath High School Pro Start Advisory Committee, 2006-2011