Executive Chef Douglas MacMillan worked alongside members of the school board—such as the former mayor of Grover Beach, Dee Santos—to establish the AGHS Culinary Arts Program in 2007. He inspired young minds to learn the art of cooking and the opportunities it creates. Known and admired for his enthusiasm, outgoing personality, and kindness, MacMillan impacts countless lives around the community.
While MacMillan has many passions, his life centers around restaurants and soccer, as they are “all he’s ever known.”
MacMillan gives back to the community through both of these passions. In addition to being a part of the Culinary Arts Program, MacMillan coached soccer at AGHS on and off for roughly 30 years. creating lasting friendships and inspiring students to pursue their passions just like he had.
Before MacMillan began coaching soccer, he spent time in Italy and several other countries in Europe, expanding his culinary knowledge and learning new techniques and practices.
Despite traveling the world, MacMillan learned most of his kitchen skills from his mother, Rosa. MacMillan works to bring a creative and authentic twist to his restaurants and teaching style.
photo courtesy of Rosa’s menu.
MacMillan fights daily to maintain his success and help others learn to do the same, whilst constantly contributing to his community.
“When you reach a certain point of success, you need to give back to the community that got you there,” MacMillan said.
As a successful entrepreneur and businessman, MacMillan is proud of helping his community prosper. MacMillan hosts and partakes in several competitions and fundraisers, such as the “Martini Shakedown” and the soon-to-come “Chop Classic,” which will be hosted in the AGHS Culinary Arts building. From providing scholarships to donating funds, MacMillan is always there to help.
“He’s so willing to give,” AGHS Culinary teacher Amber Russell said. “From ingredients to opportunities, funds, [and] equipment, [he gives us] whatever we need.”
Macmillan takes pride in his involvement in the community, striving to help others reach their highest potential.
“My favorite thing about Chef MacMillan is his love for not only cooking but [also] teaching others how to cook,” Advanced Culinary student Ian Childress (‘25) said.
MacMillan provides many community members with jobs and opportunities for growth throughout his three restaurants—Rosa’s Italian Restaurant, Ada’s Fish House, and Vista Steak and Seafood.
“One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned from [MacMillan] is to look at situations with a glass-half-full mentality,” AGHS alumni and assistant manager at Vista Hanna Wilkerson said.
MacMillan teaches his students, coworkers, and employees the art of cooking, real-world skills, and life lessons they can take with them anywhere. His positive attitude and encouragement truly lights up any room.
“Doug is so full of life and always walks in with a smile on his face ready to ask us about our day,” Wilkerson said.
Macmillan works to make personal connections with all of his students and employees, making working for him and studying under him a truly influential experience.
“Chef Doug taught me how to work collaboratively with others and how to properly and safely work in a kitchen,” Advanced Culinary student Dominic Logoluso (‘25) said.
Students and community members praise MacMillan for his enthusiasm and knowledge in many fields, both in the kitchen and out, as well as for his ability to communicate and teach them.
“He is an amazing teacher and coach in the kitchen and the soccer field,” Childress said. “Chef MacMillan’s compassion and enthusiasm for cooking is a driving force that leaves an impact on all of the [Culinary Arts] students.”
From his students, employees, friends, and many others in the community, Chef MacMillan’s support, attitude, and encouragement leave a lasting impression on almost everyone he encounters.
