Educators Shaping Clark County

Chef Earl Frederick honored at event spotlighting educational leaders

Pictured (L to R): Chef Earl Frederick and Sharif Burdzik

Over 100 educational leaders, volunteers, and community members from across Clark County recently came together for the “Learn Here Heroes” ceremony to celebrate the individuals shaping the region’s educational system.  

One of the evening’s honorees was Clark’s own Chef Earl Frederick, who was recognized for his leadership in culinary education and deep community involvement. During the ceremony, the presenter highlighted his impact on students and the regional hospitality industry. 

“Under his leadership, graduates are highly sought after by top restaurants, hotels, and resorts nationwide, and students were recently selected to provide refreshments at Governor Ferguson’s inaugural ball,” the presenter said. “A co-founder of The Portland Kitchen, Chef Earl is deeply engaged in the community and serves on the boards of the Vancouver Farmers Market and Stone Soup PDX. With nearly three decades of experience, he brings mentorship, expertise, and a commitment to service as we train the next generation of culinary professionals.” 

Also honored at the event was Sharif Burdzik, a Clark College Foundation board member, for his dedicated commitment to education and community partnerships in Clark County. A member of the Foundation Board since 2020, he has spent more than two decades supporting students and veterans through collaborative community efforts and advocacy. 

Each honoree received an engraved award along with a gratitude packet featuring gifts from local businesses. 

The Learn Here ceremony, held at the Vancouver Innovation Center, recognizes educational leaders and volunteers from 12 school districts and institutions across Clark County, spotlighting two individuals from each organization. The event is part of the broader Learn Here Project, an initiative led by Identity Clark County to highlight the region’s robust educational offerings and the individuals who help make them possible. The event was sponsored by local businesses and organizations, including the Port of Vancouver and Windermere Real Estate, who are committed to strengthening education and recognizing important work being done by our educators. 

Identity Clark County has been hosting this event for the past decade, and members of the Clark community have been honored at each event. Learn more about this year’s honorees and see previous winners of Learn Here Heroes. 

Photos: Clark College/Maureen Chen-Hefflin and Malena Goerl

Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing