Our Team

We’ve been in the foodservice industry for over four decades.

Karen VanPelt-Higgins

President Emeritus
Karen VanPelt-Higgins

Karen is an industry veteran, having started her career as a registered dietitian and a food service director, with over 20 years of multi-unit food service management experience in the healthcare market. Karen’s knowledge and experience, coupled with her natural ability to connect with end user operators, led her to join 4 Star Reps in 2002. In 2009, she became a principal of the organization, and her systematic business approach, progressive nature, and growth mindset have shaped 4 Star into what it is today. Karen received the Foodservice Equipment & Supplies Top Achiever – Manufacturers’ Rep Award at the FE&S Dealer of the Year and All-Industry Awards Gala in 2019. In 2021, Karen designated Erica Monaghan to be her successor and she retired from 4 Star.

Erica Monaghan, CFSP

Principal, President
Erica Monaghan

Erica joined 4 Star Reps in 2013 to create a cloud-based Customer Relationship Management program, which continues to drive the team’s ability to manage the sales process and analyze sales opportunity data. Over the years, Erica has grown within the organization, serving as the information/marketing manager, business development manager, vice president, and now president. Erica earned a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership from Penn State University and has extensive experience in business organization and data management. Her goal oriented, team-based approach to success and attention to detail brings unparalleled professionalism to 4 Star and our manufacturers.  Erica is a Certified Foodservice Professional (CFSP Level 1), a certified Intuit Quick Base App Builder, she’s ServSafe certified, and she is a member of MAFSI’s Board of Directors.

Steve Heraty

Sales Associate, End User Specialist
Steve Heraty

In 2019, Steve joined the 4 Star Reps team, dedicating himself to supporting our valued customer base. His journey in foodservice began during his teens, working at Villanova University’s concession stands, setting the stage for diverse experiences. A Penn State University graduate, Steve began his career as a general manager in the greater Philadelphia area. With insights from the casino, healthcare, and independent restaurant sectors, he brought a can-do attitude to 4 Star, driven to provide effective solutions. Steve holds a ServSafe certification and is actively pursuing CFSP certification for professional excellence. Steve treasures moments with his family and maintains an active lifestyle through basketball, golf, and skiing. Steve and his wife welcomed their first son in 2022 and are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their second son in 2024.

Chef Greg Stephenson

Sales Associate, Culinary Director
Chef Greg

Chef Greg, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, brings with him extensive culinary training, equipment knowledge, and healthcare and hospitality relationships. With a background as an executive chef and general manager of dining in both fine dining and senior living market segments, he joined 4 Star in 2021 to expand the sales force and to serve as the as culinary director. Chef Greg is a loving husband and father to two boys with whom he shares his passion for cooking, crafting meals at home every night. He is also a devoted fan of all Philadelphia sports teams, especially the Philadelphia Flyers. We encourage you to schedule an equipment demonstration with Chef Greg at our test kitchen. You’ll witness firsthand his passion for food preparation, skill in stylish plating, and commitment to exceptional taste – an experience certain to leave a lasting impression.

John Cascio

Sales Associate
JohnC

John, a 2018 graduate from Rowan University, joined 4 Star Reps in 2023 to expand the company’s outside sales services. With over four years of diverse experience in service-based industries and various restaurants, he brings a unique perspective to the team. Committed to delivering unparalleled service and building lasting client relationships, John is excited to collaborate with you in elevating your business within the dynamic world of hospitality. In John’s free time, he enjoys a variety of activities including ice hockey, golf, skiing, and surfing.

Skyler Fox

Director of Communications & Marketing
Skyler

In 2023, Skyler joined 4 Star Reps as Director of Communications and Marketing. With a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University, she brings over a decade of valuable experience in the foodservice and janitorial sanitation industries. Skyler’s extensive background in working with manufacturers and distributors positions her well to streamline communication and processes across the supply chain, ensuring optimal service for our customers. Her LEAN certification underscores her commitment to efficiency. Skyler is excited to provide white glove solutions for both our new and existing partners as we navigate continued growth. Beyond her professional pursuits, Skyler takes pleasure in traveling with her daughter, indulging in the exploration of new cultures and cuisines around the world.

Phyllis White, CFSP

Senior Inside Sales Associate
Phyllis White

Since joining in 2003, Phyllis has dedicated two decades to 4 Star Reps and cultivating a robust understanding of foodservice equipment. Serving as a senior inside sales associate, Phyllis plays an important role in supporting our bid and contract customers, providing them with project assistance, quotations, and comprehensive product information. Her calm and professional demeanor not only strengthens communication but also fosters success for everyone who she assists. Phyllis pursued her academic journey at Alderson Broaddus University in Phillippi, WV, focusing on Biology. She holds the distinction of being a Certified Foodservice Professional (CFSP) and is certified in ServSafe, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards in her field. Additionally, Phyllis is a lifetime member of the Somerdale Fire Department, showcasing her dedication to both professional excellence and community service.

Caralynn Reddig

Sales Associate, K-12 Specialist
Caralynn Reddig

Caralynn became a valuable member of 4 Star Reps in 2017 to grow our sales team, assuming the role of an end user specialist with a particular focus on schools and institutions. Her extensive background in education, coupled with a genuine passion for culinary science, supports her familial connection to the foodservice industry. A high achiever from the start, Caralynn graduated as valedictorian of her high school class. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree and has pursued coursework for a master’s degree in economics at George Mason University. In addition to her academic achievements, Caralynn is ServSafe certified. Beyond her professional pursuits, Caralynn has diverse interests. While being a true Swiftie, she finds joy in spending time with cats, as well as taking pleasure in crafting cocktails, attending outdoor concerts, and has a perpetual curiosity for learning new things.

Laura Reinhardt

Inside Sales Associate
Laura Reinhardt

In 2015, Laura joined 4 Star Reps, bringing with her a wealth of experience encompassing 9 years in sales and customer service. Drawing her highly effective communication and interpersonal skills, Laura, a sociology graduate from Penn State University, is adept at addressing a diverse range of tasks. Her expertise serves as an appreciated asset for both customers and manufacturers, contributing to seamless problem-solving and top-notch customer support. Laura is certified in ServSafe, underscoring her commitment to ensuring the highest standards in food safety. When Laura is not supporting the Nittany Lions, she enjoys spending her time engaging in outdoor activities with her family.

Jordan Copelan

Procurement Specialist
Jordan Copelan

Jordan joined 4 Star Reps in 2022, stepping into the role of procurement specialist. Jordan holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Kennesaw State University and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from both the hospitality and food service manufacturing industries. Fueled by a commitment to a customer-first approach, Jordan excels in their role, employing a detail-oriented mindset to guarantee customer satisfaction. In recognition of their dedication and outstanding performance, Jordan was honored with the MAFSI Manufacturer Rising Star Award in 2020. Outside of work, Jordan has passion for the great outdoors, often indulging in hiking and camping adventures. They’re an avid enthusiast of music festivals and enjoys the thrill of exploring new cities and restaurants during their travels.

Rachel Bonaventura

Service & Demo Coordinator
Rachel Head Shot

In 2017, Rachel became an integral part of the 4 Star Reps team, contributing 12 years of combined experience in customer service and data entry. Rachel’s commitment to accuracy and organizational proficiency proves invaluable to our team, complemented by her friendly and outgoing personality. At the core of Rachel’s responsibilities are service issue resolution, meticulous CRM documentation, and providing inside support for both our team and customers. Certified in ServSafe, Rachel emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards in food safety. Outside of her professional commitments, Rachel channels her interests into decorating and working out during her free time.

Jennifer Cole

Inside Sales Support Specialist
Jennifer Cole Headshot

In 2023, Jennifer joined the 4 Star team, contributing an impressive 20 years of administrative and customer service expertise, coupled with a certification in travel and hospitality. With over a decade dedicated to assisting clients in every aspect of travel, ensuring seamless and worry-free experiences, Jennifer brings the same level of care and concern to our valued customers. Known for her exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, Jennifer is committed to crafting customer experiences that are not only friendly but also effortlessly easy. Beyond her professional endeavors, she finds joy in working out, embracing the outdoors, and spending quality time with her family, friends, and her maltase, Marvin.

Gina Bryce

Logistics Coordinator

In 2021, Gina joined the 4 Star team, bringing with her an impressive track record of over 20 years in the industry. Armed with a degree in Business Administration, Gina embarked on her career journey as a bookkeeper before seamlessly transitioning into the foodservice sector. She dedicated nearly two decades to one of the nation’s leading foodservice equipment dealers. Gina’s skill set is diverse and includes hands-on experience in purchasing, tracking, data entry, service request resolution, and project coordination. Her role involves valuable assistance to Project Managers, showcasing her comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of the field. Additionally, Gina holds ServSafe certification. Outside of her professional pursuits, Gina finds fulfillment in gardening, exploring various crafts, and enjoys spending time with her animals.

Kelly Mastellar

Accounting Manager
Kelly

Kelly joined 4 Star Reps to support the accounting and financial operations of the company. Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Bloomsburg University which led her to a prominent CPA firm. During her time there, she gained hands-on experience in auditing for government contractors, nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, and small business clients. She also spent several years as the office manager and chief accountant for an HVAC company, during which time she gained valuable experience with customer service and operations. What truly drives Kelly in her work is a passion for simplifying complex procedures and embracing cut-and-dry systems that lead to concise answers, accuracy, and completeness. Beyond the world of finance, her personal interests lie in nature, travel, fitness, and physical well-being, reflecting her commitment to precision and rigor in both professional and personal pursuits.