Creators
FUTURE PROOF
Your instructors are some of today’s most influential bartenders and bar owners.
Meet Your Creators

Claire Sprouse
Sustainability Advocate
...has worked vigorously to address the industry’s influence on climate change, with a focus on educating and consulting on sustainable practices...

Claire Sprouse
Sustainability Advocate

Jim Meehan
Cocktail Philosopher
...passion for service, quest for further knowledge, belief in the transformative power of hospitality, and commitment to mentor the industry’s next generation...

Jim Meehan
Cocktail Philosopher

Steve Schneider
Global Bar Operator
...worked tirelessly on the front lines of the cocktail renaissance to achieve a level of success seldom seen..

Steve Schneider
Global Bar Operator
Advisors

Heidi Hinkle Vargas
Vice President, Sales
...oversees the national strategy and execution for all things hospitality which includes national accounts, field sales, brand ambassadors, and trade marketing programs across North America...

Heidi Hinkle Vargas
Vice President, Sales

Adrian Biggs
Director of Advocacy
...manages the Bacardi Team of Portfolio Ambassadors in their efforts to help elevate and educate bar owners, managers, bartenders, and service staff...

Adrian Biggs
Director of Advocacy

Jaymee Mandeville
National Education Director
...is a demonstrated trainer and awarded mixologist. Jaymee has been a featured presenter and panelist and comes with a wealth of industry insights...

Jaymee Mandeville
National Education Director
Recruitment & Certification

Colin Appiah
Director Culture & Lifestyle
...is responsible for fostering brand advocacy for the Bacardi USA Brand Portfolio, building brand loyalty, and elevating the bartending community through brand focused educational programming, events, & seminars...

Colin Appiah
Director Culture & Lifestyle

Leeanne Grunow
Project Coordinator
...is an awarded scholar with her bachelor’s and master’s from FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Upon graduation she parlayed her acquired experience into landing a new role with TEAM Enterprises...

Leeanne Grunow
Project Coordinator

Brian Connors
Director, Bacardi Center
...passion for beverage education is proven with the development of awarding winning beverage programs and innovative educational platforms. Brian works directly with industry and academia creating innovative solutions...

Brian Connors
Director, Bacardi Center