Clark Alums Back in the Kitchen

Former culinary students join MCI instructors for first alumni event

By Malena Goerl
Clark Culinary students, alumni, and instructors gathered in front of the MCI, under a blue and orange balloon arch Pictured: Clark former and current culinary students join their instructors at the first culinary alumni event
 

Two event attendees draw on brown butcher paper“This is the best day ever!” Chef Melanie proclaimed as she welcomed former and current students arriving at the McClaskey Culinary Institute (MCI).  

Old and new friends greeted each other with hugs, waves, and excited squeals on the afternoon of June 4. The MCI’s doors and windows were thrown open, letting in the sunshine and spring air as guests gathered for the very first Culinary Alumni Event.  

Graduates from throughout the years attended, connecting with former classmates and instructors. For many attendees, the event was an opportunity to see friends and mentors they hadn’t spoken to in years. Conversations flowed easily as they reflected on memorable classes and the paths their careers had taken since leaving the program. 

Of course, guests also connected over their shared passion for — what else — FOOD! Some guests debated which local bakeries had the best cakes, while others shared recent international food escapades. 

The evening featured snacks created by current students — lamb kabobs, pastries, and non-alcoholic cocktails. There were also raffle prizes donated by the local businesses that sponsored the event, including Al & Ernie’s Bakery Cafe, Bleu Door Bakery, Relevant Coffee, and Lady Bird Fried Chicken. 

The idea for the event came from Chef Melanie’s wish to visit all her former students. But, instead of coordinating individual visits, she decided to establish an alumni event. This way, not only could she reconnect with her former students, but they could all come together as a Clark culinary family. 

The alumni event was a smashing success, proving that you can take a chef out of the MCI, but you can never take the MCI out of the chef. 

Culinary students behind counter at cafe, where they were creating non-alcoholic cocktails

Two culinary alum stand under a sign that says "alum" with blue and orange balloons. Both are holding plates of food.

Lucy stands next to culinary students at the event's check-in table

Culinary alum checks in to the event

Three culinary alumni smile while chatting at event

Culinary alumni speak to representative from Relevant Coffee, who sponsored the event

About Clark's Culinary Institute

The Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute at Clark College is the only public, accredited culinary program in the metro region offering a two-year associate in applied technology degree. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum, a seasoned team of instructors with real-world experience, state-of-the-art culinary facilities, and strong industry partnerships. Learn more about the Cuisine Management program at Clark College. 

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing