Catherine Elsaesser

Catherine Elsaesser has a diverse range of work experience, starting in 2014 with an internship at Hollywood Casino where they gained experience in both front and back of house positions. Catherine then went on to work as a dining services management trainee at Brookdale Senior Living Solutions, providing hospitality and fine dining service to senior citizens. Catherine also interned at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, where they worked on a summer-long group project and provided office lunch services.

In 2016, Catherine became a fitness monitor at Cornell Fitness Centers, where they maintained a safe workout environment for gym members. Catherine also worked as a teaching assistant at Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, assisting faculty in culinary lab classes and restaurant management courses.

Catherine gained experience in baking and pastry arts as a pastry extern at Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza and later attended The Culinary Institute of America, where they worked as a student manager in the Student Recreation Center.

Starting in 2019, Catherine worked as a manager for Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, overseeing front and back of house operations. Catherine then became a manager for Beatrix Streeterville at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, leading a team and ensuring efficient daily operations.

Most recently, Catherine joined Fooda as an operations account executive, where they act as a point of contact for catering clients and manages on-site staff for client events. Catherine also oversees accounts receivable associated with client accounts.

Catherine Elsaesser began their education at Wyoming High School, where they completed their high school education from 2009 to 2013. After graduating from high school, they attended Cornell University from 2013 to 2017, where they earned a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Administration. In 2017, Catherine enrolled in The Culinary Institute of America and completed an Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree in Baking and Pastry Arts from 2017 to 2019.

In addition to their formal education, Catherine has obtained several certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field. In 2014, they received the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA) from STR, Inc., and the Revinate Certification in Hotel Online Presence Management from Revinate. In 2019, Catherine obtained the BASSET Certification from the Illinois Liquor Control Commission. Catherine has also earned the ServSafe Certification from the National Restaurant Association in 2020 and the ServSafe Allergens Certification in 2021. These additional certifications demonstrate their commitment to professional development and their dedication to ensuring safe and efficient practices in the hospitality industry.