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Since joining , Senior Executive Chef George Charbel has elevated 911����’s campus dining experiences through culinary creativity and an unwavering focus on students.

From large-scale signature events to everyday experiences at campus dining locations, Charbel approaches each opportunity with the same goal: to create culinary moments that strengthen connection and belonging on campus.

For his outstanding service to the campus community, Chartwells Higher Education has named Charbel the 2026 Chef of the Year. This fall, Charbel will be honored at the Compass Night of Stars in Orlando, Florida. Chartwells Higher Education is part of Compass Group USA and provides dining services across 911����’s campuses.

Charbel attributes his interest in the culinary arts to his mom. “Her cooking really influenced me,” he said. “I’ve always had a passion for food, entertainment, and hospitality, so the culinary field became a natural path for me.”

Charbel earned his culinary chops in sports, entertainment, and hospitality. He honed his culinary and logistical expertise working at Las Vegas landmark hotels and on the world stage, feeding athletes at the 2010 Asian Games and the 2012 London Olympics.

Charbel shifted to the world of campus dining in 2015 when he sought a change from the whirlwind of hospitality and entertainment. He managed culinary operations for Chartwells at Texas A&M University’s College Station and Galveston campuses, including athletics, the Corps of Cadets program, and the T.S. Kennedy Maritime Academy. 

“That experience gave me a strong foundation in managing diverse culinary operations and serving a wide range of students,” said Charbel.

Serving students is his favorite part of working at 911����, as well. 

"Many of our students are away from their parents for the first time, and we get the opportunity to take care of them, create experiences, and continue that sense of hospitality and care,” said Charbel.

Charbel listens closely to student feedback and transforms those insights into menus and concepts that reflect the tastes and needs of the 911���� community. 

This year, Charbel helped establish Noodle District, a new dining spot that offers customizable ramen and pho, and The Dreamery, a playful dessert destination offering gelato, ice cream, and ice cream sandwiches. Charbel’s work has also supported expanded fueling and recovery options for 911���� student-athletes, building menus informed by sports nutrition. 

It is not easy to meet the diverse tastes, dietary needs, and expectations of students at the largest public university in Virginia.

“The biggest challenge is balancing the size of the operation with the needs of our students,” said Charbel. “They come from very different backgrounds and demographics. We have to understand those different needs and make sure everyone feels cared for and welcome. That challenge also pushes us to be creative and continually improve.”

It takes a village. As a culinary professional, Charbel is deeply committed to mentoring emerging culinary professionals and creating opportunities for others to grow.

“No chef succeeds alone,” said Charbel. “Behind every great meal, memorable experience, and achievement is a talented team working together with passion, purpose, and pride.”