Pine Bluff, AR — Dr. W. Jinnings Burruss Jr., assistant professor of food service and restaurant management for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Department of Human Sciences, was recently appointed to the Arkansas Restaurant Association (ARA) Board of Directors by the Arkansas Hospitality Association.
According to a press release by the Arkansas Hospitality Association, “With his extensive culinary expertise and passion for elevating food service standards, Dr. Burruss brings invaluable insights and leadership to the organization. As a certified executive chef and master chef, he possesses a wealth of experience in managing food operations at the highest level. He believes that being a chef is more than just a title – it is about sharing the joy of culinary craftsmanship and creating memorable experiences for diners. His dedication to culinary excellence and commitment to quality aligns perfectly with the mission of the Arkansas Restaurant Association.”
Since starting at UAPB in the fall of 2022, Dr. Burruss has revised the food service and restaurant management curriculum, updated the campus teaching kitchens, written grants for funding for hospitality and culinary projects and developed partnerships to assist UAPB graduates in finding employment while in school and after graduation. He teaches food service and restaurant management courses including quantity food production, food principles, elementary nutrition and social/cultural aspects of food.
In addition to his work at UAPB, he is also the manager of restaurant service operations at Saracen Casino and Resort in Pine Bluff, where he serves as chef de cuisine for five food outlets and works closely with the Red Oak Steakhouse.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
