This week, students in the Kankakee County CEO Program visited two businesses in the Majestic Center: Stefari Coffee House and Essential Smoothies Cafe.

At Stefari, students explored the business model across two locations with distinct atmospheres, one offering a more contemporary dining experience and the other a cozy coffee shop setting. Katherine Henson shared her professional journey with the students - and emphasized how leveraging her network helped her get to where she is today, and students saw firsthand how entrepreneurs often wear many hats.

At Essential Smoothies, owner Denise Smith shared her journey in opening the Majestic Center location and her passion for providing healthy, vegetarian-focused options to the community. She also discussed her goals for continued growth and expansion, including opening a satellite location inside the Riverside Health & Fitness Center to further connect healthy food options with wellness-focused spaces in the community.

Students also enjoyed sampling menu favorites, including the Thin Mint Iced Latte and Strawberry Lemonade from Stefari, and the Jalapeño Cheddar Sourdough Bagel and the All-American burger from Essential Cafe.

Students experienced firsthand how both of these businesses are deeply committed to community involvement, collaboration, and creating meaningful connections within Kankakee.