Vanderbilt Campus Dining is proud to celebrate the recognition of four staff members with Excellence Awards at the 2025 Fall Staff Assembly. The Campus Dining Training Team, Chef Doug Best, Chef Kriska Nagle and Emily Svennevik, registered dietitian, was recognized with the Innovation Excellence Award for their creative approach and meaningful impact on staff development; James Knight was recognized with the Professional Excellence Award for his demonstration of excellence and positive influence on Vanderbilt Campus Dining throughout his 45 years of service.
Innovation Excellence Award
Campus Dining Training Team: Chef Doug Best, Chef Kriska Nagle and Emily Svennevik, registered dietitian
Photo: Harrison McClary/Vanderbilt University
The Innovation Excellence Award honors a full-time staff member or team who demonstrates excellence in innovation with a meaningful impact on a process, program, or initiative at Vanderbilt. Recipients have implemented or introduced a new system or approach within the past 12-18 months that advances the university’s mission.
The Campus Dining Training Team was recognized for transforming what began as a mentorship program into Vanderbilt’s accredited Culinary Academy. This structured, multi-level training program equips dining staff with the culinary skills and professional development necessary to prepare participants for nationally recognized certification requirements. The program has elevated Campus Dining’s standards, enhanced staff experience and positioned Vanderbilt among the nation’s premier university dining services.
Chancellor Diermeier added a personal aside when presenting the award, noting that the Culinary Academy is one of his favorite programs on campus. He discussed the graduation ceremony that he attends each year, commenting on the specialness of welcoming Culinary Academy graduates and their families to campus, as well as the demonstration of growth at every branch of the university.
Professional Excellence Award
James Knight
Photo: Harrison McClary/Vanderbilt University
The Professional Excellence Award recognizes a full-time staff member who contributes to Vanderbilt University’s success by going above and beyond specific job duties and exemplifying excellence in supporting the university’s mission. Recipients positively influence the work environment, foster cooperation, achieve goals and overcome challenges while carrying out their responsibilities.
James Knight, who celebrated 45 years of service with Campus Dining this August, was recognized for his steady leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment to Vanderbilt’s community. Since joining Campus Dining in 1980, Knight has fostered a supportive atmosphere by welcoming students with a warm smile, mentoring new team members and ensuring every guest feels valued.
“Across nearly every campus dining hall, James has built lasting connections with students, faculty and staff,” Chancellor Diermeier read from Knight’s nomination. “This August, James celebrated his 45th year of service at Vanderbilt, a testament to his resilience and his transformative impact on Campus Dining and on the Vanderbilt community. Congratulations, and thank you, James.”