Event Recap

Changing the World Through the Power of Food with Sam Bakhshandehpour, José Andrés Group CEO

October 2, 2024 Version: 4 https://finpolicy.georgetown.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PowerOfFood-51-scaled.jpg

In partnership with The Earth Commons, Georgetown University, the Psaros Center for Financial Markets and Policy hosted Sam Bakhshandehpour for a conversation with Reena Aggarwal and Peter Marra.

As Chief Executive Officer of José Andrés Group, Bakhshandehpour emphasized how the power of food can be used to change the world. Serving as a pillar of culture, food brings people together and contributes to authentic storytelling whether it is a family event, a celebration, or a business meeting.

Sam Bakhshandehpour shared his belief that hospitality is a responsibility. Aligned with Georgetown University’s Jesuit values, if you are serving others, “that’s the ultimate North Star.” Bakhshandehpour also shared how the José Andrés Group is committed to developing responsible, sustainable operations, which is why they are introducing a food waste tracking program as a KPI of its restaurants.

To close out the evening a reception catered by JALEO was held, featuring signature Spanish foods including ibérico ham, manchego cheese, and a variety of tapas.

Photos courtesy of Earth Commons by Malu Veltze.

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Changing the World Through the Power of Food

  • Peter Marra, Sam Bakhshandehpour, and Reena Aggarwal
  • Sam Bakhshandehpour speaking on stage
  • Full crowd in Fisher Colloquium
  • Reena Aggarwal, Sam Bakhshandehpour, and Peter Marra on stage
  • Classic Spanish tapas catered by Jaleo