We're thrilled to provide a progress report regarding the Aarón Sánchez Scholarship Class of 2024 recipients who are studying at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute. These four talented individuals are making significant strides and we're eager to share some highlights.
Recently, Chef Aarón Sánchez sat down to meet with our Class of 2024. Under his mentorship, they are continuing to gain valuable industry insight and are determining their personal career path goals. At this early stage, they've shown interest in learning what it takes to be a private chef, a culinary teacher, how food is featured in media, and how to climb the back-of-house ladder in restaurants and hotels.
Two of our scholars, Meyauna Campbell and Melvin Reyes, cooked with Chef Sophina Uong of Mister Mao (who was also recently named a James Beard Award nominee!) Together, they seasoned a mouthwatering Mister Mao-style crawfish boil (with red curry, pineapple, basil, cilantro & chiles), completely selling out of those uniquely flavored mudbugs and learning more about regional cooking techniques.
Leap Day brought the NOCHI Garde Manger showcase, where the entire cohort of students demonstrated their culinary skills through innovative dishes and exquisite presentations. The showcase featured four days of training and prep. The menu included beef Wellington, chicken liver mousse, smoked salmon bites, charcuterie displays, boudin balls, beef jerky, candied bacon, and much more.
Beyond their work and school commitments, our students have also embraced the importance of community engagement by volunteering at NOCHI's Open House and other events. Through school involvement, they're sharing their passion for cooking with others, fostering a sense of inspiration, and building camaraderie within their community.
With the guidance of esteemed mentors like Chefs Aarón Sánchez, Sophina Uong and others, our Class of 2024 is poised to make a lasting impact in the future.