About the Oregon Restaurant Education Foundation

The Oregon Restaurant Education Foundation (OREF) was formed in 1991 as a nonprofit corporation in the State of Oregon. Its mission is to become the premier resource in Oregon for hospitality industry information and dissemination and to ensure future stability and growth through development of workforce education and enhancement programs. OREF strives to become a model to other states and organizations for programs, partnerships, and industry pride.

OREF supports and promotes the highest standards of excellence for Oregon’s hospitality industry through a variety of programs. Its primary purposes are: 

• Promote the hospitality industry as a career of pride and professionalism throughout the education system and with the general public.
• Increase the relevancy of educational preparation for foodservice/hospitality careers.
• Enhance educational opportunities and programs for individuals already in the foodservice/hospitality industry, upgrading the quality of current workforce.
• Encourage students to seek foodservice/hospitality industry careers and provide financial assistance through a scholarship program.
• Pursue opportunities and partnerships to create the highest standards for quality, health, and safety for industry employees and the general public.
• Conduct research to further the standards of professionalism within the industry.

While originally developed by the Oregon Restaurant Association, the Foundation now operates as an entity whose programs serve, and are supported by, the entire hospitality and tourism industry. Thirteen individuals act as Trustees of the Foundation in a volunteer capacity. The group meets approximately four times a year. Sharyl Parker is the Executive Director of the Foundation, and leads three additional staff persons.