Joe Douglas, President & CEO of Captiva Restaurant Group and Owner of 131 MAIN, has made a generous commitment of $50,000 to the FSU Dedman College of Hospitality's Little Dinner Series program. This landmark donation establishes the 131 MAIN Restaurant "Platform for Excellence" Culinary Arts Student Support Fund, marking a significant milestone in the college's history.

As a dedicated alumnus of FSU's hospitality program, Joe Douglas looks back on his time as a student with great fondness, particularly his role as Chief Lab Assistant to the late Professor Ashby Stiff, the visionary behind the Little Dinner Series.

Reflecting on his motivation behind this contribution, Joe shared, "The gift is to support a part of the hospitality program that had a large impact on my career direction and my confidence in my career. I made many friendships, both professional and personal, through my experience with the Little Dinner Series, including being the chief lab assistant for Ashby Stiff." Shortly after graduating from Florida State University, Mr. Douglas embarked on a journey in the food industry, eventually nurturing his passion for the upscale casual restaurant segment. Now, as the owner of 131 MAIN, a renowned destination for upscale dining in North Carolina, he believes in giving back and supporting the institutions that played a pivotal role in his development and career choice.

The newly established 131 MAIN Restaurant "Platform for Excellence" Culinary Arts Student Support Fund will provide essential financial assistance to cover the costs associated with the college's well-known Little Dinner Series program. Joe Douglas's commitment reflects his belief in the importance of nurturing the talents of future generations of hospitality professionals as they make their career choices and gain confidence in the industry.

When asked about his perspective on the Dedman College of Hospitality, Joe Douglas responded, "It's a family of professors who are committed to guiding new students into the industry and assisting them in starting a career in the hospitality industry." This sentiment underscores the deep connection he maintains with his alma mater and his dedication to its mission.

Furthermore, Joe shared his aspirations for his philanthropy at the Dedman College of Hospitality, stating, "I would like to support in any way that I can all students in the school and their desire to enter the hospitality field. Also, I would like to create more brand awareness for 131 MAIN Restaurant among the students for them to understand our commitment to excellence." This commitment not only benefits the students but also highlights the shared values of excellence and dedication between 131 MAIN and the Dedman College of Hospitality.

Voted as one of the best date night restaurants in North Carolina, 131 MAIN offers a distinctive upscale dining experience, inviting customers to savor an environment brimming with energy and the aroma of a hickory wood fire grill. Signature dishes, such as their Cast Iron Corn Bread and Southern Shrimp and Grits, showcase a fresh Southern flair. Presently, 131 MAIN operates in four different locations in North Carolina: two in Charlotte, one in Asheville, and one in Cornelius.

Joe Douglas's commitment to the Dedman College of Hospitality and the establishment of the 131 MAIN Restaurant "Platform for Excellence" Culinary Arts Student Support Fund exemplify the profound impact of philanthropy on education and the hospitality industry. His generosity will shape the future of aspiring culinary professionals and leave a lasting legacy at Florida State University's Dedman College of Hospitality.