December 16—Each year Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services announces its national winners that have participated in a company-wide recognition program named "Be-A-Star". Award categories range from Account of the Year, Chef of the Year, and Associate of the Year. Chartwells' parent company, Compass Group North America, also announces winners in diversity and inclusion and community outreach award categories.
Chartwells is segmented into regions across the U.S. where regional Accounts and Chefs of the Year are chosen that compete for the overall national title to be recognized as champions in the industry. Each region also recognizes Associates of the Year in culinary, hourly, and management positions. The highest performing region and district manager award categories are also part of the national recognition program. Additional honors with rewards are given throughout the year based on exceeding various program achievements relating to the promotion and implementation of marketing initiatives concerning guest service, health and wellness initiatives, culinary innovations, sustainability, and financial related performance just to name a few.