O'Neal Welcomes Nieves-Hernandez as Chef Manager

The O'Neal School is thrilled to announce the appointment of Sheila [Shāla] Nieves-Hernandez as the chef manager, leading the School's new dining service program.
 With over 13 years of experience in the culinary industry, Sheila brings a deep passion for food and a wealth of expertise, rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage.

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Sheila studied culinary arts at the Instituto de Banca y Comercio in San Juan, where she developed her love for Caribbean cuisine, a skill she continues to highlight in her culinary creations. Her journey in the kitchen began under the guidance of her grandmother, whose influence sparked a lifelong passion for food.

In 2011, Sheila moved to North Carolina, where her culinary career blossomed. She has held roles from Garde manger to sous chef and has extensive experience managing kitchen operations, including supervising diverse teams and fostering a positive, educational work environment. Her leadership style reflects a strong commitment to quality, creativity, and teamwork.

Beyond the kitchen, Sheila enjoys creative pursuits like crafts and painting and cherishes time with her family, including her husband Ben, sister Sofy, stepson Yandel, and her three poodles, Lilo, Mia, and Lucas. She is also a proud aunt to 7 nieces, 2 nephews, and another nephew on the way. 
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