Joseph Larry Jackson ('77)
President
Breaking PAR: Diversity Course Management
Lectured April 10, 2008
A graduate of the Conrad N. Hilton College at the University of Houston, Joseph Larry Jackson is a 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry's full-service segment. In November 2010, Joseph established his own business, Breaking PAR: Diversity Course Management LLC, a societal hospitality development company with an emphasis on corporate responsibility, diversity enrichment and senior leadership coaching.Prior to creating Breaking Par, Joseph spent 15 years as vice president and officer for OSI Restaurant Partners LLC, which is the parent company for Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. He was recognized as the Outbacker of the Year in 2006. Joseph also owned an Outback Steakhouse, served as general manager for Steak and Ale, Bennigan's and Olive Garden Italian Restaurants, and was part of the first management opening team for Fuddrucker's.
Joseph's passion is improving inclusive behaviors within the hospitality industry. He works with numerous national, state and industry organizations to increase the significance and the eventual leadership promotions of women and other underrepresented groups. He is the originator of the "Five for Our Future Developmental Program," which provides a flowchart of essential mentorship and authentic personal advancement initiatives. Through this program, senior leadership, HR, legal and marketing are prepared to have ownership of meaningful initiatives to support answerable inclusive practices.
Joseph is a member of Hilton College's Board of Advisors and was honored to be his alma mater's commencement speaker in 2004. He also is on the executive board of the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance and is a board member of the Hospitality Industry Diversity Institute at Hilton College.
At the University of South Florida, Joseph established the Kente Awards, which honor community leaders and university staff in Tampa who work together to support scholastic achievement and diverse relationships. Joseph also was responsible for organizing the inaugural fundraising dinner for the National Underground Railroad Museum and Freedom Center in Cincinnati, which raised $1.2 million.