Christian is from Winston-Salem NC. He has a background in Culinary, graduating from Johnson & Wales University and is a Certified Executive Chef. After working in Hospitality for over 25 years, and as an Executive Chef in hotels, restaurants, and universities for over a decade, Christian now leads the Harvest Table Culinary Group team at UVA. Christian has 2 children with his wife Christina, and now lives in Waynesboro, VA.

Thomas grew up in Charlottesville, VA. He moved to Charleston, SC and received his bachelor’s in business administration from the College of Charleston. He then went to culinary school at the Art Institute of Charleston while working in restaurants in that area. He has come back to Charlottesville with his wife, Molly, to raise their two young children, Will and Ashley.

Chef Janie grew up right outside of Charlottesville in Orange County Virginia. She graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management. Janie has worked in the Hospitality Industry for almost 15 years and has extensive experience catering in the event industry. In her spare time, Janie enjoys spending time with her family which often includes frequenting the local farmer’s markets and surrounding wineries.

Matt Paysour is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s Degree in Public Health & Nutrition from UNC-Chapel Hill and Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science from UVA. Matt has a background in local food marketing, and he is thrilled to be back on Grounds to share his enthusiasm for community-building, sound nutrition knowledge, and eating well through eating local. When he’s not in the dining halls, you’d probably find him hiking, cooking, or browsing at the public library.