Alumni spotlight: Aaron Heft

Graduating from ECU and the School of Hospitality Leadership in 2017 opened the doors to a rewarding career journey at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.

As its senior event manager, I orchestrate 80-100 fundraising and community events annually, each a unique challenge and opportunity. From coordinating a former prime minister’s address to orchestrating a rally getting 25 buses to the National Mall in Washington D.C., every event brings its own set of complexities. Yet, with the support of my incredible colleagues and vendor partners, we always rise to the occasion, even when it involves feeding 2,000+ guests across three states with kosher and other dietary restrictions!

At the heart of my success lies the invaluable education I received at ECU and SHL. Courses like principles of food preparation and menu planning equipped me with the knowledge to collaborate seamlessly with caterers. At the same time, wine and beverage management honed my skills in alcohol management and pairing—an essential aspect of stocking bars at our events.

Today, as I navigate the dynamic world of event management, I’m grateful for the solid foundation laid by my SHL education. When my colleagues marvel at the seamless execution of an event, it’s a testament to the skills and knowledge gained during my time at ECU.

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