HTA Team
Executive Team
Adine Forman
Executive Director
Adine Forman has more than 30 years of experience leading workforce development, social service, and governmental organizations in Los Angeles.
She has built a career at the intersection of policy, program development, and advocacy, working to expand economic opportunities for marginalized communities through innovative training and employment initiatives.
Prior to joining the HTA as Executive Director in 2012, Adine served as Director of Government Affairs & Special Projects at Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) Los Angeles, where she led legislative strategy and contract negotiations, securing government funding and strengthening partnerships to advance workforce development programs.
She previously co-founded Forman/Jerome Consulting, LLC, a public affairs and community relations firm specializing in government funding, fiscal management, and strategic planning for corporate and nonprofit clients.
Adine also spent several years in key leadership positions within Los Angeles County’s Department of Community and Senior Services, where she oversaw employment and training programs, refugee services, and inter-agency collaboration. As Acting Program Manager and County Refugee Coordinator, she managed initiatives supporting some of the region’s most vulnerable populations, while as Chief of State Government Relations, she designed legislative advocacy programs to expand funding and resources for social service programs.
She began her career at The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, where she led government relations and public policy efforts, managed statewide legislative advocacy, and fostered partnerships with civic and community organizations.
Adine holds a J.D. from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, and a B.A. from the University of Arizona. She frequently speaks at national conferences and advises organizations on developing high-road training partnerships, registered apprenticeships, and industry-driven workforce strategies.
Mitchell Frieder
Director of Food and Beverage Training
Mitchell has been fostering innovation in culinary education, teaching culinary students for over two decades and was a Chef Instructor at the International Culinary School at the Art Institute, Le Cordon Bleu, UCLA Extension, Le Gourmet Culinary and a number of community colleges and consults for various businesses including the Shanghai Trade School in Shanghai, China. He has been a food columnist, hosted a radio cooking show for five years and a television cooking show for ten years.
Jorge Galvez
Director of Finance
Jorge Galvez has more than 30 years of experience in the operations and administration of federal employment and training programs. Over the course of his career, Jorge has managed more than $100 million in public funds.
Before joining the HTA, Jorge spent over 22 years working as the Financial Manager for Hub Cities Consortium, where he also served as the CFO of the Hub Cities Career Center Corporation. Jorge’s areas of expertise include budget management, cost allocation plans, maintaining systems of internal controls, grant management, and policy development and analysis.
Adrineh Terantonians
Deputy Director
Adrineh Terantonians has 20 years of leadership experience in workforce and career development, specializing in program management, employment and occupational skills training, quality assurance, data analysis, workforce operations, and compliance with federal and state programs. She has designed, managed, and implemented workforce development initiatives across multiple agencies, including the Social Security Administration, the Department of Rehabilitation, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and the Department of Social Services.
Adrineh holds a B.A. in English and is a certified Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF). She serves as an examiner for the California Awards for Performance Excellence (CAPE) and is an active member of the California Council for Excellence (CCE) and the National Career Development Association (NCDA).
Stephany Morris-Nelson
Director of Human Resources
Stephany Morris Nelson has over 20 years of experience in human resources, recruitment, and employee engagement. Stephany is deeply engaged with the Professionals in Human Resources Association (PIHRA), where she serves on the Board of Directors for the Los Angeles Chapter as the Mentorship and Certification Chair, and as Co-Chair of the College Relations Committee.
An alumna of the University of Arizona, she also holds a Business Management Certification from Los Angeles Valley College, in addition to her PHR and SHRM-CP credentials.
Management Team
Jaime Cedano
Director of Special Projects
Jaime Cedano brings over 20 years of experience in retail and management. Since joining the HTA in 2017, he has served as case manager, apprenticeship coordinator, and facilities director.
Jaime holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Arizona State University.
Elvin Flores
Apprenticeship Manager
Elvin Flores is an experienced professional in the workforce development sector, focused on directing projects that serve youth and adult participants. He serves as the Youth Specialist for the Goodwill Youth Program and then spent several years supervising programs and initiatives for Equus Workforce Solutions, gleaning valuable insights from working with youth and adult dislocated workers under the WIOA framework. Elvin brings his deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced by these communities and a commitment to fostering inclusive apprenticeship programs to his role at the HTA. Elvin holds a BA in Spanish with a Minor in Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Socrates Garay
Outreach Manager
Socrates Garay brings nearly two decades of experience in economic development, career services, and workforce advancement for the City and County of Los Angeles. He joined the Hospitality Training Academy (HTA) in 2024 and has found his greatest fulfillment serving as Outreach Manager. Under his leadership, the outreach team has connected countless community members to HTA’s life-changing services—offering pathways to better jobs, stronger careers, and renewed hope for the future.
Sean Glynn
Contracts & Data Manager
Sean Glynn joined HTA in 2020 and currently serves as the Contracts and Data Manager, ensuring reporting and compliance at local, state, and federal levels with a focus on data-driven learning and program guidance. Sean previously managed several of HTA's grant programs as well as the “Serving Our Community,” a $34-million-dollar program providing safely prepared food to vulnerable individuals affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Sean has a BA in History from Grinnell College and is currently pursuing his MS in Accountancy at California State University, Los Angeles.reinforcement.
Gabriela Jimenez
Program Director
Gabriela Jimenez is a seasoned non-profit leader with nearly 20 years of experience in youth and workforce development, as well as program design and implementation. Her expertise spans recruitment, case management, job placement, transition services, grant management, and program analysis. Through strategic program coordination and management, she has played a key role in successfully placing hundreds of clients into permanent employment or post-secondary education.
Gabriela holds a B.A. in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach, and an M.P.A. with a graduate certificate in Public Policy from the University of Southern California.
Yessica Sanchez
Program Manager
Yessica Sanchez is a Program Manager with over 14 years of experience in workforce development, specializing in WIOA services and supporting hard-to-serve populations. She is passionate about empowering communities and committed to helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency through meaningful employment opportunities. Known for her fairness and empathy, Yessica brings a unique and valuable perspective informed by her own lived experience.
Instructors
Kelly Corwin
Kelly Corwin is a career barista with over ten years of customer-facing experience in the industry. Kelly was trained by SCA-certified trainers at Allegro Coffee Roasters in Berkeley, CA to bring attention to the smallest of details both in drink preparation and customer interaction. Soon after, Kelly developed a barista training program for Sweet Bar Bakery in Oakland, CA which served wood-fire roasted Mr. Espresso Coffee. As a trainer, most recently for Erewhon and Equator Coffee in Los Angeles, Kelly helped over a hundred new baristas learn the skills they needed to succeed on the job.
Chef Rogelio Diaz
Chef Rogelio Diaz, inspired by a family tradition of cooking, has a deep passion for Mexican, Italian, and Spanish cuisines, along with LA's vibrant street food scene. A 2019 graduate of HTA’s Chef de Partie apprenticeship program, Rogelio began his career at the Sofitel Beverly Hills, a four-star hotel specializing in American/Mexican cuisine. Since then, he has honed his skills at renowned establishments like Joey DTLA and Soulmate West Hollywood.
Committed to his roots, he supports HTA through events, mentoring graduates, and joined as an assistant instructor in 2022.
Chef Danny Harold
Chef Danny Harold has over 35 years of culinary excellence, blending global education with high-profile experience. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University and the Montreux Hotel School, Danny has served as Executive Chef at leading restaurants in Beverly Hills and the Hamptons.
As founder and proprietor of Harold Catering, he served President Barack Obama, the former NBC CEO Jeff Zucker, major entertainment studios, and as Bruce Springsteen’s private chef. Chef Danny has taught at the International Culinary School at The Art Institute and is a member of the James Beard Foundation, the American Culinary Federation, and the Chef de Cuisine of Los Angeles.
Missy Mayhugh
Missy Mayhugh has over 15 years of experience in the coffee industry as a barista, manager, consultant, and certified trainer. As an Authorized SCA Trainer, she has spent five years teaching classes and certifying coffee professionals. A seasoned competitor and award-winning expert in coffee mixology and latte art, Missy served as a Head Judge for the U.S. Barista Championships and contributes to the Competitions Working Group, advancing training and standards for the industry.
Chef Abraham Ortiz
Chef Abraham Ortiz has over 15 years of culinary expertise, honed at acclaimed restaurants and hotels in San Diego and Los Angeles. His career includes working alongside renowned chefs like Thomas Keller at Bouchon Bistro, Daniel Humm at NoMad Hotel, and Curtis Stone at Gwen Restaurant, where he and his team earned a Michelin star in 2022.
Abraham has also contributed to Tartine Bianco, Tartine Bakery, and Nicolas Eatery with Nicolas Fanucci, former GM of The French Laundry during its 3-Michelin-star era.
Born in Tijuana, Mexico, Chef Abraham specializes in French cuisine, skillfully blending it with Mexican ingredients to create innovative dishes. His leadership and creativity have made him a standout chef in Southern California's dynamic culinary scene.
Quentin White
Quentin White is a seasoned hospitality expert with a track record of designing and executing high-impact bar programs, events, and training initiatives. He was instrumental in developing the bartender/mixologist apprenticeship program and served as the lead instructor at the National Bartending School, shaping the next generation of bartenders.
His expertise in bar program development includes designing and launching the spirits selection, cocktail menus, and beer programs for The Glen Arden Club, a private members-only venue. He has orchestrated exclusive events and with leading brands in the spirits space, elevating guest experiences and driving engagement. His ability to customize bar catering experiences has made him a sought-after craft cocktail curator and event planner for over a decade.
Chef Zadi
Born in Lyon, France, Chef Zadi has over two decades of teaching experience and brings a wealth of global culinary expertise. A graduate of the Ecole Atelier Auguste Escoffier, Zadi began his career at esteemed establishments such as the three-Michelin-starred Chez Jacques Cagna in Paris and La Machonnerie in Lyon. His journey later took him to London, Scotland, and Korea, where he earned acclaim for transforming underperforming restaurants into profitable ventures while catering to diplomats and business leaders. Since 2000, Chef Zadi has focused on culinary education in the United States, teaching at institutions like Le Cordon Bleu, Sur La Table, and Central Market. As a California state-certified instructor, he uniquely excels in both culinary and pastry arts. Featured in outlets such as The Los Angeles Times, Gourmet, and The New York Times, Chef Zadi continues to inspire through his innovative approach to food and education.
Staff
Jacqueline Barajas Employment Specialist
Kevin Trejo
Outreach Specialist
Estela Gaytan
Employment Specialist
Eva Gil
Accountant
Sherrie Gomez
Alumni Engagement Specialist
Jennie Hernandez
Outreach Specialist
Roberto Jara
Employment Specialist
Gustavo Madera-Ruiz
Outreach Specialist
Alan Martinez
Accountant
Michelle Newsome Employment Specialist
Rafael Rodriguez
Youth Employment Specialist
Fernando Sandoval Employment Specialist – Arizona
Alice Stanford
Alumni Engagement Specialist
Sandra Tarango
Employment Specialist
Board of Trustees
As a Taft-Hartley trust fund, the Hospitality Industry Training and Education Fund (HITEF) is jointly governed by a Board of three permanent Trustees and three alternate Trustees appointed by UNITE HERE Local 11 and three permanent Trustees and three alternate Trustees appointed by employers who contribute to the Fund.
Susan Minato
HTA Board Chair
Susan Minato is the Co-President of UNITE HERE Local 11, representing more than 30,000 hospitality workers across Southern California, and an International Vice President of UNITE HERE. A graduate of Duke University and the UCLA School of Law, she began her legal career at the LA County Public Defender’s Office and the Inner-City Law Center, advocating for Skid Row residents. She later served as staff attorney for the Utility Workers Union of America Local 132, representing Gas Company workers.
Drawn to the power of worker organizing, Susan transitioned to UNITE HERE in 1993, taking on assignments in San Diego, Laughlin, and Las Vegas before settling in Los Angeles. For over two decades, she has led organizing efforts in the hospitality industry and mentored emerging leaders in the labor movement.
Jamie Clough
HTA Board Secretary
Jamie Clough is the Senior Vice President of Labor Relations at Compass Group USA, leading labor strategy and negotiations across the organization.
Previously, he served as Regional Director of Human Resources for Levy Restaurants’ West Division, overseeing HR operations for more than 40 sports and entertainment venues from California to Texas. Originally from the UK, Jamie began his career with Levy UK before relocating to Los Angeles in 2013, where he worked extensively in the LA market at major venues such as STAPLES Center and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Michele Gaul
HTA Board Trustee
Michele Gaul is a seasoned Human Resources professional with a B.S. in Hotel/Restaurant and Institutional Management from Golden Gate University. She began her hospitality career in 1986 as an HR Assistant at the Berkeley Marina Marriott, advancing to HR Manager upon graduation.
Her journey continued at the SF Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf as Assistant Human Resource Director, where she gained valuable union experience, and later at the San Diego Marriott Suites. After a shift to the medical industry as HR Director and Director of Volunteers for Mount Zion Health Systems / UCSF, she returned to hospitality with Kimpton Hotel and Restaurant Group as Corporate Employee Relations Manager.
She furthered her career with Wyndham and Starwood, opening several properties during Starwood’s expansion. In 2000, she founded her own HR consulting firm, partnering with labor attorneys and clients across industries, including film and high tech, while maintaining close ties to hospitality with Starwood and Joie de Vivre Hospitality.
For the past 20 years, she has served as Regional Director of Talent & Culture for The Fairmont San Francisco, supporting five properties across California and Washington State. She is an active board member, including as founding member and board treasurer of Equality and Inclusion in the Hospitality Industry, a partnership with Local 2, the San Francisco Hotel Council, and the SF Office of Workforce Development.
Karine Mansoorian
HTA Board Trustee
Karine Mansoorian is the Chief Negotiator for UNITE HERE Local 11, advocating for respect and improved standards for workers across the hospitality, tourism, leisure, and food service industries. She represents a wide range of sectors within the union, including hotels, gaming, food service, airport concessions, airline catering, office and studio cafeterias, and event venues.
Karine shapes policy and programs in response to evolving industry trends and employer practices. A graduate of the London School of Economics with a BSc in Economics, she began her career at Local 11 in 1989 as an organizer. Her strong understanding of the workforce and skill in negotiation led to her promotion to negotiator, and in 2000, she was named Chief Negotiator.
Kurt Petersen
HTA Board Trustee
Kurt Petersen graduated from the University of Notre Dame and received his J.D. from Yale Law School.
Upon graduation from law school, Kurt joined the United Farm Workers of Washington State in Sunnyside, Washington, as an Organizer. Kurt has been with UNITE HERE Local 11 since 1995, and currently is the Co-President.
Dan Stimmler
HTA Board Trustee
Dan Stimmler was named vice president for auxiliary services in May of 2016, previously serving as associate senior vice president of auxiliary services since October 2006. In this capacity, he oversees the university’s auxiliary services enterprise, which consists of the following operating units: USC Bookstores, which is the second largest independent college bookstore system in the United States; USC Hospitality, which encompasses residential dining at Everybody’s Kitchen, Parkside and the USC Village, full-service catering operations at Town and Gown and the Ronald Tutor Campus Center, and more than 30 restaurant and retail outlets located on the University Park and Health Sciences campuses; USC Housing, which accommodates more than 9,200 USC students; USC Transportation, which spans campus entrances, parking services, trams, Campus Cruisers, rideshare programs, citations, a gas station, and the USC Hotel.
As of 2013, Stimmler also oversees the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, as Chief Operating Officer. Before being named associate senior vice president, Stimmler served as associate vice president of auxiliary services from 2005 to 2006, and as director of the USC Bookstores from 2002 to 2005. He has worked at USC since 1992.
Stimmler earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and his MBA from the University of Southern California.
Alternates
Javier Cano
HTA Alternate Board Trustee
Javier Cano is Area General Manager for Marriott International’s Los Angeles properties, overseeing operations for ten hotels, including The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, and Sheraton Grand Los Angeles. With 44 years at Marriott, he has built a distinguished career in hospitality operations across properties in the U.S. and Mexico.
Cano’s tenure includes serving as General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua in Maui, where he managed the AAA Five Diamond resort for nearly five years. He was also Area General Manager for the Los Angeles Airport Marriott and was named “General Manager of the Year” for Marriott’s Western Region in both 1999 and 2001. In 2012, he received Marriott’s prestigious “General Manager of the Year” award for his leadership at L.A. LIVE, and in 2018, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles earned Hotel of the Year for North America under his direction.
As the pre-opening team leader for the L.A. LIVE hotels, Cano has been a key figure in downtown Los Angeles’ ongoing renaissance. He was recognized on the 2018 LA500 list by the Los Angeles Business Journal for his contributions to the city’s development.
An active community leader, Cano has led the L.A. LIVE hotels to receive Marriott’s “Alice S. Marriott Award for Community Service” in 2012 and 2014. He has also guided the Los Angeles Airport Marriott to win Marriott’s “Spirit to Serve” award.
Cano currently serves as Chairman of the Los Angeles Tourism Marketing District, overseeing a $27 million fund to promote the area’s hotels. He is also on the executive committees of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board and the California Hotel & Lodging Association and sits on the boards of the California Travel Association, Los Angeles Hotel Association, California Hospital Medical Center Foundation, and the Central City Association.
Dylan Daney
HTA Alternate Board Trustee
Dylan Daney is a Lead Organizer for UNITE HERE Local 11, representing thousands of food service workers in airport concessions, airline catering, office and movie studio cafeterias, and universities. Dylan earned a BPhil (Bachelor of Philosophy) in Interdisciplinary Studies from Miami University in 2007 and started at Local 11 in 2011 as an organizer after working in the hotel industry as a banquet server.
Larry Labrado
HTA Alternate Board Trustee
Larry Labrado is the Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Strategic Initiatives at Disneyland Resort, where he leads cross-functional strategies that advance the company’s business goals and community impact. He brings over two decades of experience in communications, public affairs, and government relations, including leadership roles at Southern California Edison. Larry has been recognized with numerous honors, including Edison International’s Chairman’s Award and OC Metro’s 40 Under 40. He serves on the governing boards of Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation and Orange County United Way.
Miguel Jauregui
HTA Alternate Board Trustee
Beatriz Topete
HTA Alternate Board Trustee
Beatriz Topete is an organizing director at UNITE HERE Local 11, where she has played a pivotal role in numerous organizing campaigns since joining the union in 1998. She began her career at Local 11 working on a political campaign to elect Gray Davis.
Before joining the union, Beatriz served in the military from 1985 to 1989 and later worked with at-risk youth in East Los Angeles.
Since joining UNITE HERE as an organizer, Beatriz has developed worker leaders and helped bring hundreds of workers into the union. She led the contract negotiations with Disney and political campaigns in Orange County. She served as staff director for UNITE HERE Local 5 in Hawaii before relocating to Phoenix, Arizona in 2019. In Arizona, she led efforts to organize new workers into the union and has played a key role in expanding the Hospitality Training Academy in the state.
