Alumni Profiles
Darrell Pacheco - Alumni Profiles - People - Batten Institute
Darrell Pacheco
MBA '23
Owner, Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters
When Darrell Pacheco (MBA '23) acquired Shenandoah Joe, it was the perfect opportunity to combine his love of coffee, business and people.
With nearly a decade of experience in investment management and a Darden MBA in hand, Pacheco said Shenandoah Joe turned out to be the perfect spot that allows him to blend his various business experiences with a passion for entrepreneurship.
The Darden alum first encountered entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) upon his arrival to Darden. Through various resources at Darden including the ETA Club and Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology, Darden provided opportunities to network with people in the small business ecosystem, serving as a strong foundation for his future.
Pacheco acquired Shenandoah Joe from previous owner, Dave Fafara, whom he met while at Darden. “I think there is something pretty incredible about being able to acquire a business that is essentially someone’s legacy and then stewarding that forward,” he said. Pacheco sees the acquisition as an opportunity to honor and build upon what Fafara created, while also shaping its future for the next generation.
As for the business side, the same meticulous systems thinking and supply chains he learned about at Darden now help him navigate everything from sourcing beans from East Africa to roasting them with care and precision. Whether he’s unloading 10,000 pounds of beans from around the globe or engaging with loyal customers, Pacheco brings dedication and craftsmanship to every aspect of his work.