By Garrison McDaniel

Chris North, one of the newest board members of the Ohio State Sports and Society Initiative (SSI), is bringing exciting possibilities for Ohio State students through his extensive network in the hospitality and events industry.

As Vice President at Levy Restaurants, a leading hospitality company managing food services in 30% of NFL stadiums, North offers unique insights into the intersection of sports, hospitality, and event management. Leveraging his role, North aims to open doors for students that extend far beyond Columbus, Ohio.

“Whether it’s shadowing programs, internships, or involvement in major events like the Grammys, Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, or even the Super Bowl, there’s a wide range of exciting opportunities we can offer,” North said. “We might be able to provide a different experience than what’s currently available at SSI.”

North’s extensive career in the service industry has taken him across kitchens, hotels, and sporting venues in Columbus. Though he began working inside restaurants, his passion shifted to the logistics and production side of hospitality while organizing hotel catering events.

“I find it incredibly impactful to be part of someone’s experience,” North said. “When someone entrusts you with their wedding day or a moment in their life that they want to remember forever, being able to contribute to that is deeply meaningful.”

Now, North channels that passion into creating memorable experiences on game days at Ohio Stadium and the Schottenstein Center, where Levy Restaurants serves as the exclusive food and beverage partner.

“We represent the university in every facet,” North said. “If something isn’t right with the food and beverage experience, the perception isn’t that Levy fell short—it’s that the university fell short.”

Beyond enhancing game day operations, North is eager to contribute to SSI’s broader mission. He credits SSI Director Nicole Kraft for inspiring him to get involved and sees tremendous potential for collaboration between Levy Restaurants and the initiative.

“Nicole and I recognized synergies between what we do in hospitality and SSI’s goals,” North said. “It’s an opportunity to shine a light on areas that haven’t been given much attention before.”

Through SSI, North hopes to provide students with immersive learning experiences that prepare them for careers in the dynamic fields of sports, hospitality, and event management.

With his vision and connections, SSI is well-positioned to offer students unprecedented opportunities, further solidifying Ohio State’s leadership at the intersection of athletics and academics.