Her Story
About Samantha
Samantha Jackson serves as senior sous chef at the Gaylord National in Waldorf, Maryland, where she has worked for approximately five to six years. With more than 20 years in the hospitality industry, she began her culinary journey inspired by her mother's resourcefulness and developed her skills through high school culinary arts programs and competitions like SkillsUSA. A graduate of Stratford University, Samantha has advanced from line cook roles at properties including the MGM National Harbor to management positions, earning manager of the quarter honors. She excels in labor management, ordering, P&L oversight, and creative menu rebranding, including concepts like Memphis Q. Beyond her role, she owns Better Days Cafe, focusing on family-style events that foster connection without distractions. Samantha contributes to her community through Bridging Gap Outreach Services, organizing back-to-school supplies and holiday brunches with toy donations. She attributes her success to her drive to provide more for herself and her three sons, her tenacity through challenges such as an electrical fire, and a strong support system. She values adaptability, empathy, consideration, respect, and quality time, and advises young women entering the field to develop tough skin, confidence, and the ability to adapt while treating others as they wish to be treated.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Samantha
01What do you attribute your success to?
Wanting more for myself and my kids. My drive and tenacity, never giving up even through obstacles like an electrical fire. Having a good support system and knowing my purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Treat people the way you want to be treated. Everything is at your service, meaning be supportive of your team.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You have to have tough skin, be sure of yourself, confident, and pull yourself together. Fake it till you make it if needed, and remember to pray or meditate when overwhelmed.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Gender bias in promotions, as having kids was used against me while a male colleague with a newborn was promoted. Opportunities in focusing on my own business instead.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Adaptability, empathy, consideration, respect, and quality time. Being human and supportive in difficult times like loss.
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