Meet Us

The guiding principle of Soil2Service leadership is the improvement of all communities, individuals and systems. This principle is held in the highest regard for the Executive Director, Board of Directors and anyone participating in the organization. Leadership in Soil2Service abides by the five principles outlined below and work to develop anyone involved with the organization to understand and adopt the principles.

Individual Mastery

The concept of knowing oneself and continually improving and learning. We must always be willing to grow, develop and master our individual selves.

Trust

Having trust in the decisions, process and concepts that are shared to better Soil2Service. Trust that the decision, actions and events conducted in the name of Soil2Service will enhance the mission.

Safety in Communication

When engaged in communication, the right to speak your mind is guaranteed to all individuals. Every idea will be heard and treated with professionalism and respect.

Systems Thinking

We must think outside of ourselves. What will the impact have on all the systems? We will filter all ideas, projects and events through a systems approach.

Metanoia – Shift of the Mind

Impart a sense of metanoia. We will go beyond everyday learning and work to impart a shift in mindset for the people we touch. Every individual encounter will allow the opportunity to improve humanity. With metanoia, the long-lasting effect may be achieved.

Board of Directors

Eric Abbey, PhD.

Eric has been working in the restaurant industry for 25 years finding success with his focus on the elegance of the dining experience for the customer. Eric is also a published author, a full professor of literature at Oakland Community College, and received his Doctoral Degree from Wayne State University.

Mike Hix

Mike brings a unique understanding of food and service coupled with the desire to make a positive difference in the lives of the people that work in the food system.

Geoffrey Q. Devereaux

Geoffrey was born and raised in Detroit Michigan which gives him a unique advantage in connecting with people in the community and helping others through service. After serving one tour of duty with the United States Air Force, Geoffrey worked at the Internal Revenue Service before turning his focus to the non-profit sector.

Danielle Todd

Danielle Todd has worked in marketing and communications for 15+ years and holds a B.A. from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Wayne State University. Danielle brings a passion for sharing knowledge and education with the community.

Operations Team

Jeremy Abbey, WCMC, CEC, CEPC, CCE, CCAExecutive Director

Jeremy has worked in premier restaurants and has opened some of the most influential hospitality concepts in the nation. His diverse experience in the culinary arts has allowed him to affect lives on a global scale.

John T. Piazza, CEC, CCAExecutive Director of Business Development

John is the Executive Director of Business Development for Soil2Service, Inc., a project consultant for the American Culinary Federation, and the treasurer of the Michigan Chef’s de Cuisine Association. Chef Piazza’s view on hospitality culture and his commitment to people brings a unique edge to the team.

Detroit Institute of Gastronomy

Academic

David Hooper, MA, CEC, CCA
Culinary Adjunct Professor

Eric Abbey, PhD
Academic Adjunct Professor

Veteran Support Services Team

Gary Smith
Counseling

Geoffrey Devereaux
Veteran Concierge Specialist

edibleWOW

Robb Harper
Director of Development

Rita Tucker
Development Coordinator

Jacob
Development Coordinator

Craig Batory
Development Coordinator