Last week, juniors and seniors participated in a Special Programming Day where they had the opportunity to hear from AJ Kumaran, Co-CEO of Raising Cane's and current ESD parent, as part of the annual Robert H. Dedman Endowed Lecture Series for Leadership.
Kumaran, who was introduced by Student Council President Kai Robinson '22, spoke to students about his journey, from India to Switzerland to Dubai, that eventually led him to his current position in Dallas at Raising Cane's. He advised students of six very important things he learned along the way.
- Never stop dreaming
- Never stop being a student
- Never compromise your values
- Never stop having fun
- Never give up
- Never take anything for granted
L to R: Head of School Dave Baad, Arya Ajith '26, AJ Kumaran, Kai Robinson '22, and grandson of Robert Dedman and ESD parent and alum Jonathan Dietz '14.
Kumaran, who has lent a helping hand by working as a cashier and fry cook at many of his Raising Cane's establishments, also spoke about the importance of valuing your employees. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was advised to let go a large number of his employees and decrease compensation to ensure financial stability of the company. Instead, Kumaran gave up his own salary in order to provide for his employees. Values in tact, he protected the Raising Cane's family and led them through a global pandemic.
After the lecture, Kumaran gifted students with a variety of Raising Cane's swag, including gift cards, scrunchies, and other fun items. Thank you for speaking to our students!
Started in 2002, the Robert H. Dedman Endowed Lecture Series provides students opportunities to learn lessons in leadership from outstanding achievers across many industries. Guests have included captains of many industries, heroes, and champions of philanthropy and service. For more information, please contact Carol Bergman (bergmanc@esdallas.org).