EVSC Culinary Arts Program Named to Elite 50

The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation’s Culinary Arts Program at the Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center (SICTC) was named to the 2016 Elite 50 Hospitality Program, an exclusive group of high schools and career and technical schools from across the country. The program is offered through the National Center for Hospitality Studies at Sullivan University, Kentucky’s largest private college.

“Congratulations to the EVSC Culinary Arts program and Chef Ed at SICTC on being recognized as one of the Top 50 programs in the nation,” said James Cavin, advisory member and executive chef, Hamilton Pointe Health & Rehabilitation Center. “I am always impressed with the caliber of student talent coming from Chef Ed at the career center and how it contributes to grow our local hospitality industry. Great job future chefs!”

The 50 schools making the list excel in the areas of culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, and/or hospitality management. To earn a spot on the list, schools had to participate in state competitions such as SkillsUSA, submit an original recipe with photos, create videos and/or brochures that include information about the program, and submit essays from students about why they want to pursue a career in hospitality. Special consideration also is given to programs that operate a restaurant or offer catering services, both of which the EVSC’s Culinary Arts program does.

“This is such a great honor for us,” said Chef Ed Ellis, EVSC culinary arts instructor. “Being named one of the top 50 culinary arts programs at the high school level in the nation proves that what we are doing here in Evansville, Ind., not only has an impact on our students and their futures, but also on the entire community.”