Tech Center Chefs, Hospitality & Culinary Program Awarded

Celebrated chefs and the entire Hospitality & Culinary Program at Kent Career Tech Center received honors from the Greater Grand Rapids American Culinary Federation at their annual awards banquet in April.

Top honors were given to program instructor Mary Hunter named Pastry Chef of the Year, recognizing her passion for the craft and accomplished reputation in the pastry field. Instructor Jacob Bandstra received Chef Educator of the Year honors for giving leadership, guidance and direction to students seeking a career in the culinary profession. Culinary student Silvia Garcia under the instruction of Don Henderson was honored at Junior Chef of the Year. The Tech Center Hospitality & Culinary program also received the Excellence Award.

“We could not be prouder of Jacob, Mary, Silvia and the whole hospitality and culinary team at the Tech Center,” said Kent ISD Superintendent Ron Koehler.  “To receive awards for our chefs and program from this outstanding organization is a great honor.” 

“The Tech Center offers students opportunities to explore and experience a full range of hospitality careers with our own kitchens, restaurant, cafeteria and bakery, including state of the art charcuterie and fine chocolate labs,” said Kent Career Tech Center Principal Joe Lienesch.  “Our exceptional instructors are key to helping our students succeed and connect with promising careers.”

The Greater Grand Rapids Hospitality & Culinary Program annual awards ceremony took at Amway Grand Plaza on April 21. Please direct media inquiries to Joy Walczak, Kent ISD Communications Specialist at joywalczak@kentisd.org or 906.632.6290.