Paradies Lagardère Unveils Restaurant Internship with Georgia State University

ATLANTA, January 31, 2023 – Leading airport restaurateur Paradies Lagardère has announced the sponsorship and inception of a new restaurant hospitality intern program with Georgia State University. The newly created internship honors the career of Regynald G. Washington, the former President of Paradies Lagardère Dining. 

Mr. Washington has a passion for excellence and continues to mentor others to do the same through his decorated career with organizations such as The Walt Disney Company, Hojeij Branded Foods, Paradies Lagardère and beyond. He was also an elected officer and board member of the National Restaurant Association and a recipient of the Gold Plate Award by the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association (IFMA).

The paid internship will offer twelve weeks of education and valuable experience to a Georgia State student each semester and will include a dedicated mentor and advisor. Through an interview process, Paradies Lagardère has already selected a bright Georgia State University student, Diamond Webb, who began her Spring 2023 internship in late January. Ms. Webb will gain exposure to general business and management practices while working at Paradies Lagardère’s restaurant operations at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. She will also spend time in its Atlanta offices receiving an in-depth overview of the corporate operations that support the organization’s more than 175 restaurants across 41 markets in North America.

“Our organization thrives on supporting the next generation of airport hospitality professionals and is very excited about this new internship and partnership with Georgia State University,” said Claude Guillaume, Senior Vice President of Dining for Paradies Lagardère. “Regynald Washington has always been a great inspiration for young professionals, and we are honored to continue that tradition by supporting the education and future career of such an ambitious and talented student as Ms. Webb.”

“The Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality in the Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University is honored to be selected for the inaugural Regynald G. Washington Internship program offered by Paradies Lagardère,” said Debra F. Cannon, Director and Associate Professor at Georgia State University. “Internships are pivotal points for students in opening their eyes to new career options and learning from experienced professionals. This program is the ideal way to honor Mr. Washington and his distinguished foodservice career.”