Adiah McKnight from Drexel Business Services met with Catering Services Director Pierre Bethea-Emanuel to learn more about his role and how his team serves the Drexel community.
Q: What brought you to Drexel and the Aramark team? What do you currently do?
A: I relocated from Atlanta to Philadelphia to pursue a professional opportunity outside of the hospitality industry. While the experience was valuable, I quickly realized how much I missed the day-to-day interaction with guests and the ability to create meaningful moments and lasting memories. When I discovered the Catering Operations Manager position, I knew it was an opportunity to return to the work I am truly passionate about. I applied, eager to reconnect with the hospitality field, and that decision ultimately brought me back to where I belong. Today, I am proud to serve as the Catering Services Director.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in catering and hospitality?
A: Hospitality has always been a part of who I am. With my family’s roots in the Carolinas, Southern hospitality is more than a tradition — it’s something that runs through my veins. Crafting welcoming, memorable experiences for others has always felt natural to me. I initially pursued college to become a chef. However, after taking front-of-house courses, I discovered that the warm, fuzzy feeling I was experiencing came from the connection and interaction with guests. The ability to shape someone’s experience in real time resonated with me more deeply than working behind the scenes. So, I pivoted after earning my associate degree and went on to complete my bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and foodservice entrepreneurship. Knowing both areas has served me well in my career and given me a competitive edge.
Q: How are you working to incorporate student feedback into the menus and dining programs?
A: While I do not have significant influence over the dining hall menus and programs, I am focused on identifying areas where I can create meaningful impact. My goal is to actively engage with student organizations to understand better what they are looking for in a catering provider. By gathering their input, I aim to help develop a more inclusive and responsive menu that meets the diverse needs of our campus community. Ultimately, I want to make on-campus catering the most convenient and accessible option for student groups, eliminating the need for them to seek outside vendors and the additional time and logistical challenges that come with it. Improving ease of access, inclusiveness, and overall user experience is my primary objective.
Q: Is there anything you want the University community to know about you or your team?
A: My team and I are dedicated to serving your daily catering needs. Through creativity, innovation, and exceptional service, we aim to elevate every event and deliver flavors that excite and leave a lasting impression.
Pierre’s enthusiasm for his role is clear. He takes pride in collaborating with clients to create memorable catering experiences and tailor food options for events on Drexel’s campus.
Planning an upcoming event? Visit the Chestnut Street Caterers website to view available services and sample menus. Also, contact Chestnut Street Caterers at cad@drexel.edu for additional information.