Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/615432
the midwest Latin School alumni love their food and beverages. Latin's alumni database reveals that more than three dozen alumni (who have been in touch with the school), ranging from the Class of 1963 to 2011, are working in the restaurant and hospitality industry. An impressive number of these chefs, vintners, restaurant owners and entrepreneurs have received local and national attention for their success and innovation. We recently asked Billy Dec '90, a leader in the field, why he thinks Latin alumni are drawn to this often risk-filled and always-grueling field. Dec thinks it comes with growing up in the city and being exposed to restaurants early as well as connections Latin alumni are able to build with other alumni. But it may also have something to do with the confidence to pursue passions and the willingness to work hard that are fostered at this school. "You come out of these situations feeling incredibly confident," said Dec, reflecting on his Latin and law school experiences. "You've gotten your butt kicked every which way, you've been challenged, you've grown thick skin, and you've had to educate yourself on different levels. You aren't afraid to take risks, and you can thrive in those pressure-filled environments." Keene Addington '77 Tortoise Club Alex Bachman '01 Billy Sunday Blake Bible '01 & Max Meyers '01 Radish Chicago Jack Binyon '63 Stanley's Kitchen & Tap and Melvin B's Truck Stop Matt Bercovitz '01 Berco's Popcorn 30 Why are so many Latin alumni in the food and hospitality industry?