Six Hawai‘i Students Receive Culinary Scholarships

The American Culinary Federation Kona Kohala Chefs Association awarded six $2,000 scholarships Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, at the Christmas with the Chefs gala on the grounds of Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel on Hawai‘i Island.

Pictured with their American Culinary Federation Kona Kohala Chefs Association scholarship envelopes are (L–R): Thomas Elarco, Daine Lagpacan, Taylor Neufeld, Jenna Shiroma, Brittney Badua and Lily Fraiser. Courtesy photo.

Recipients are all local culinary students attending Hawai‘i Community College–Palamanui who volunteered at the event. In addition, HCC–West Hawai‘i graduates were involved in four of the 18 culinary stations:

• Ashley Danao at Daylight Mind Coffee Company and Café
• Darcy Ambrosio of A-Bays Island Grill
• Kevin Castillo of Lava Bowls
• George Gomes of the Sheraton Kona.
• In addition, grad Patti Kimball, of Kimball Catering, served as culinary station organizer.

In its 29th year, the annual fundraiser benefits culinary students attending HCC–Palamanui and members of the Kona Kohala Chefs Association wanting to further their education.

Event proceeds and sponsors funded the scholarships. These scholarships aid students completing their two-year AAS culinary degree while preparing them for gainful employment in the workforce.

Mark your calendar for next year’s 30th anniversary benefit on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018.

About American Culinary Federation Kona Kohala Chefs Association

ACF is the largest, professional, nonprofit organization for chefs and cooks in the nation. Founded in 1980, the Kona Kohala chapter is comprised of food service professionals, vendors, growers and culinary enthusiasts. Members are local industry leaders committed to culinary enrichment through professional development and education in our community.