Remembering a Colleague and a Friend – Chef Gregory Christo, CEC

Mr. Greg Christo graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and attended RIT and St. John Fisher College. Already an accomplished chef with several years of experience in restaurant management, food service and as an Executive Chef, Greg eagerly accepted the position of REOC Culinary Arts Program Chef/Manager in 2002. Greg accepted this position to teach others culinary skills and show that anything is possible- even through adversity.

“Chef Greg” openly shared his own past personal struggles with students and encouraged each of them to grow through the skills and knowledge that they gained in the program. Many attest to Chef Greg making a difference in their lives. In this role he provided oversight, instruction, and management to the Culinary Arts program. Several hundred students have been impacted by Chef Greg’s caring spirit and professional skills.

The REOC B-STRO opened in 2012 under his leadership. He foresaw the benefits students would gain by having a “real world” experience and he knew the results of the student’s success would be worth the time and effort it would take to launch the B-STRO. Catering services eventually also became a part of the program and again provided students with “real world” experience. Chef Greg maintained contact with many of the Culinary Arts program graduates, and a few even returned to be a part of the program’s delivery. Chef Greg’s colleagues and customers valued his expertise in the field and he was recognized many times for his excellent delivery of service.

Chef Greg also contributed his services to the community. The Governor of New York, the Mayor of the City of Rochester, the retired President of The College at Brockport and hundreds of community leaders were among those whose lives were impacted by the efforts of Chef Greg. He was seen as a dedicated professional and was well-respected in the community. On an annual basis, he escorted students to Albany for the NYS Association of Black & Puerto Rican Legislators’ Conference where his students showcased their culinary talents and provided delicious treats to the attendees.

We mourn Chef Greg’s sudden passing on September 13, 2015, and take time to reflect on the dedication and service he had to the students, faculty and staff of the REOC as well as the Rochester community.