Title:GEMA NY Alumni Panel – The Power of Storytelling in Food Media & Culinary Innovation

The Georgetown Entertainment & Media Alliance (GEMA) NY Chapter’s “The Power of Storytelling in Food Media & Culinary Innovation” event, held on September 9, 2025 at Oyamel, a José Andrés restaurant in New York City, explored the fast-evolving landscape of food media, tracing its path from traditional newspaper reviews to modern-day TikTok virality. The stellar alumni panelists were: Caryn Antonini (SLL’94), host and producer of the Cultivated by Caryn Show; Sam Bakhshandehpour (B’97), CEO of the Jose Andrés Group; Maddy DeVita (C’20), private chef and content creator; and Mary Giuliani (C’97), author and founder/CEO of Mary Giuliani Catering and Events. The panel was moderated by Lizzie Hyman (C’21), writer/reporter for People Magazine. 

The panelists emphasized the importance of adapting to current trends, whether by becoming an influencer yourself or engaging with them to amplify your brand. Alongside shifts in media, the discussion touched on broader changes in the food industry itself, including younger generations’ growing focus on health, wellness, and even reduced alcohol consumption. Sam reflected on the central role of culture in food, sharing memories of warming Persian rice in his days in Henle to his recent work with José Andrés on a Basque-inspired series and restaurant. The conversation also highlighted the need for resilience in the face of public scrutiny, with Maddy advising creators and chefs to tune out the noise, stay grounded, and focus on meaningful feedback.

The event also underscored the diverse and non-linear paths that careers in food can take. Mary recounted her journey from aspiring actress at Georgetown—alongside classmates like Bradley Cooper—to event host, author, caterer, and soon-to-be TV show creator. Giving back was another central theme, with involvement in organizations like City Harvest and World Central Kitchen serving as key examples of using food as a force for good. Looking ahead, Caryn spoke about the industry’s return to food’s origins, focusing on authenticity, simplicity, and holistic nourishment. And while food was the thread that brought everyone together, the one thing beyond it that connected all the panelists was their deep love for Georgetown and the profound role it played in shaping who they are today.

Thank you to our generous partner and co-sponsor for this event, Oyamel by José Andrés.

Photos by Rebecca Greenfield.

Check out all the photos from the event here.