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Using the Library of Congress as a point of reference, through our Heritage Months, we recognize the history and contributions of various cultures by providing education and context as well as employee recognition, deeply rooted in storytelling around food, family, and tradition.
Black History Month is a time for recognizing the achievements of those of African descent and their central role in U.S. history. Every U.S. president since 1976 has officially recognized the month, also known as African American History Month. (Source: CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion)
In recognition of Black History Month, we asked our employees to share stories about their careers and passions.
Sous Chef – Specialty Restaurants, 12 years of incredible service
“Here at Wegmans, I work to maintain our standards as well as elevate what we do. My passion is Japanese food. I can really lean in on the things that excite me and share my passion with my team. I love the teaching aspect of my job the most. My mom was a schoolteacher, and throughout my life I’ve seen how important it was to bring knowledge forward. I have been able to work with many chefs throughout my career, and now I have knowledge that I can pass on to the next generation of chefs. As a Black chef in my community, I believe it’s important for people to know that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what your background is. You can do whatever you want to do as long as you have the passion for it. It’s an honor for me to be a chef in this business and at the restaurant.”
We asked John, “As we recognize Black History Month, is there anyone historical or otherwise who has inspired you in your career?”
“I would say my mom and older brother. They’ve always been the ones to encourage me to do things I am passionate about. When I graduated high school, I received a full ride to RIT for Game Design. But I decided to do culinary instead. I felt more passionate about cooking than I did about making a video game. To some people this may sound crazy, but my mom and brother were really supportive. They have had the biggest influence on me.”
Employee Advocate, 34 years of incredible service
“I always think about the Robert Wegman quote, ‘Never think about yourself; always help others.’ I have unlimited abilities to help people in the stores and in the communities. Diversity and Inclusion is something I live, not only at work but 24 hours a day. I am a certified listening trainer and a certified behavioral trainer. I have opportunities to listen to people and provide guidance for the situations they’re experiencing. I am currently reading a book called ‘Trust and Inspire’. It talks about how the world is calling for trustworthy and inspiring leaders. As a leader, I have to take moments to look at the people around me and see the good and bad. My job is to pull out all of the good in people and inspire them to be at their best.”
We asked Kenneth, “As we recognize Black History Month, is there anyone historical or otherwise who has inspired you in your career?”
“My family. Your DNA comes from your family and my family has an imprint on who I am. Your family sees things in you that you don’t even see in yourself. If I were to have an individual who wants to go on a mission trip with me and can’t afford it, I know that I can lean on my family to help support that individual.”
Wegmans is proud to partner with Black-founded and owned businesses.
Inspired by a secret family sauce recipe, Eddie Harris opened his own restaurant in 1981, and in 1983, Boss Sauce was born. Boss Sauce is a Rochester staple and a must-have for your kitchen!
Arsha and Charles Jones started Mambo Sauce in 2011, inspired by the sauce Arsha enjoyed growing up in Washington, D.C. Mambo Sauce is a sweet, sticky, and tangy sauce that can be used to spice up any dish!
Coral Brown is director of winemaking for House of Brown, a Black family-owned and women-run producer in California. A sister label to Brown Estate, House of Brown is certified sustainable and vegan-friendly.