As we celebrate Black History Month and honor those who have made significant contributions to our country and the world, we’d like to recognize our associates who are doing their part to make Compass and our communities a better place. Each week throughout the month of February, we’ll spotlight inspirational, passionate, forward-thinking associates to learn how they’re creating positive change, honoring their heritage and much more. Read their stories below.

Cardisha Grant will celebrate her two-year anniversary with Compass this May. The Biomedical Engineer and mom of a 9-year-old son is known for busting out into song in the office, transforming any musical genre into opera. Read her story to learn how she’s hoping to be an inspiration to her son and women looking to break into the male-dominated industry of engineering.

Latashia ‘Tasha’ Malone has been working with Compass Group a little more than two years. Once an aspiring nurse, she found a new way to take care of people through the hospitality industry. This busy mom of two boys and three adopted daughters started with Compass as a Route Associate for Canteen and now serves as the Lead for Avenue C, Canteen’s self-service micro market solution that offers food and drinks to customers in a customizable retail space. Read her story.

Warren Thompson is the President and Chairman of Thompson Hospitality, the largest minority-owned food and facilities management company in the United States. In 1997 Thompson Hospitality and Compass Group USA formed a strategic partnership, making history as the first deal between a major food service company and a minority firm. Today, Thompson Hospitality serves more than 30 of the Fortune 100 companies, large colleges and universities, urban school districts, and major hospital centers. The company also owns a host of restaurant chains. Read his story to learn about his passion and commitment to promoting small, minority-owned businesses, mentoring young people and giving back to the community.

Johnny Payton began working as a Custodial Supervisor with SSC Services for Education 2 ½ years ago. The former firefighter for the California Department of Forestry realized his passion for working with students when he took a job as a janitor in the off-season at a school. In his free time, Johnny fronts a band called the BC All-Stars, which includes a James Brown Review complete with jumpsuit and wig. Read Johnny’s story to learn how he’s being a champion for diversity and inclusion, and how he’s encouraging the next generation to do the same.

Kevin Yarbrough has worked for Compass Group for three years. After a rotator cup injury sidelined him from his dream of playing football at Ole Miss (The University of Mississippi), he found his calling in the culinary world. We talked to this veteran of the culinary industry to learn how he uses food to honor his culture and the lasting impact he wants to leave at Compass. Read Kevin’s story.