Greater Atlanta Christian is celebrating a special homecoming as alumnus Max Burke, Class of 2018, returns to campus in a unique way. Max Burke serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Z Beans Coffee and has overseen the opening of Spartan Café in Jim & Julie Tidwell Commons, giving GAC families and students a gathering place fueled by more than just caffeine.

As a student at GAC, Burke excelled both on the field and in service. He played football and lacrosse, balancing athletics with his heart for missions. One of the defining experiences of his time at GAC was serving on a mission trip to Honduras, where he first felt the impact of cross-cultural service and community partnership. That trip planted a seed which grew during his college years, ultimately leading him to join Mercer on Mission in Ecuador—a program that exposed him to sustainable development work and first introduced him to Z Beans Coffee

Burke’s journey with Z Beans began in the summer of 2021 as an intern. His early days included delivering coffee, roasting beans, and doing whatever was needed to keep the young company growing. That “make yourself useful” mindset, instilled in Max by his father during his years as a student and athlete at GAC and Mercer University, quickly caught the attention of leadership at Z Beans. By the time he graduated from Mercer University in December of that year, Burke had earned the opportunity to step into a full-time role as Director of Operations.

His responsibilities and influence only grew from there. Burke later accepted the challenge of expanding Z Beans’ reach outside of the state of Georgia, serving as Chief Sales Officer and helping to establish three new locations in just over eight months. Today, as Chief Operating Officer, he works to guide the company’s daily operations, wholesale partnerships, and future expansion.

At the heart of Z Beans is a mission that resonates strongly with the values of Greater Atlanta Christian. The company is committed to “developing sustainable communities through transparent trade.” This begins with their work in Ecuador, where Z Beans partners directly with farmers, paying above fair-trade prices and supporting communities with resources and infrastructure. Their commitment to transparency ensures honesty throughout the supply chain, while their focus on sustainability promotes both environmental responsibility and long-term stability for farming families. Just as GAC encourages students to pursue lives of integrity, service, and global impact, Z Beans strives to operate as a business that uplifts people and communities around the world. 

Spartan Café in Tidwell Commons is more than a convenient spot for coffee—it’s a tangible example of how GAC alumni are carrying the school’s mission into their professional lives. Every cup served connects the campus community not only with a local business but also with farming families in Ecuador whose livelihoods are strengthened by Z Beans’ transparent and sustainable approach.

Burke’s story is one of hard work, perseverance, and purpose. His journey from GAC student to company executive illustrates how the lessons learned here can take root far beyond the classroom. Burke now has the chance to give back to the community that helped shape him, creating a space where families, students, and staff can gather, connect, and share in a mission that extends well beyond GAC’s campus.