Connie Chambers, General Manager
Connie brings her diverse and extensive hospitality experience which includes large scale events running McCormick Place, overseeing prestigious venues including the Museum of Science and Industry, The Chicago Botanic Garden and many Colleges and Universities in the Mid-West. Connie has both a degree in Culinary Arts and a bachelor’s in hospitality and Tourism. She welcomes change and thrives on serving others.
Favorite Dish to Make: Short Rib Risotto
Kenny Byrne, Chef
Chef Kenny grew up in sunny San Diego, where his passion for food and hospitality first began. His culinary journey took off when he attended Diablo Valley College, earning a degree in Culinary Arts and Hotel and Restaurant Management. Kenny has lead teams in top ranked hotels, country clubs and gastropubs. He is excited to align his love of learning with working in Higher Education!
Favorite Dish to Make: Indian Cuisine
Claire Ford, Catering Manager
One of the newest additions to the Quest at DU team, Claire Ford comes from a baking background and is passionate about fresh food and fun flavors. She most recently owned a small bakery in Central Illinois and is very happy to be working in the food service scene back in Chicagoland, near her hometown of Oak Lawn. When she’s not at Dominican, she can be found on a local hiking trail, in a restaurant she hasn’t tried before, or on the CTA looking for new adventures.
Favorite Dish to make: Baking Cookies with my little Niece!
Heather Parks, Director of Operations
Heather, also known as H.P. around the workplace, was born and raised on the west side of Chicago and has lived there her whole life. She has three beautiful kids, all boys, and loves to watch them play basketball in her spare time. She loves to sing, it helps her get through the day. She has been with Dominican University Dining Team for over 20 years!
Favorite Dish to Make: Baked Spaghetti
Andy Ducey, Sous Chef
Originally from outside Boston, Andy has 8 years of experience cooking in and around Chicago. He has been enjoying food from all over North America while touring with bands since 2017. In his time at Dominican for the past 4 years, Andy has been a cook, supervisor, and resident Very Tall Guy! No, he does not play much basketball... But he loves to bring joyful energy, bold flavors, and strong commitment to his team and to campus at large every day. After work, you can likely catch him at some local rock clubs behind a drum kit or a sound board.
Favorite Dish to Make: Italian Beef!