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Inaugural Baton Rouge ProStart Culinary Night Inspires Future Chefs
Nov 13, 2024
The Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation (LRAEF) hosted the first Baton Rouge ProStart Student Culinary Night on November 12, 2024, at the East Baton Rouge Career and Technical Education Center (EBR CTEC). This exciting event welcomed 50 ProStart students from 8 area high schools to explore their passion for the culinary arts and learn more about career paths in the hospitality industry.
ProStart is a nationally recognized, two-year culinary arts and restaurant management curriculum designed for juniors and seniors in high school. With more than 2,000 students in 65 Louisiana high schools, the program equips aspiring culinarians with hands-on training, industry connections, and the foundational knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce or higher education.
The evening featured interactive stations, live demos, and inspiring testimonials from industry professionals and partners. As well as food provided by Zea Rotisserie, SoLou, and Drago’s Seafood Restaurant. Students gained insights into various career paths while networking with representatives from esteemed organizations such as Ruffino’s, Fresh Chef Kitchen, Singer Equipment, EBR Schools, LSU School of Business, Sysco, Louisiana Culinary Institute, Making Raving Fans Hospitality Group, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, and Zea Rotisserie and Bar.
These partners engaged students with activities like mock interviews, hands-on cooking experiences, and discussions about collegiate programs. By connecting students with industry leaders, the event underscored the wealth of opportunities available within the culinary and hospitality sectors.
Thank you to all who participated and supported this incredible evening. Together, we’re shaping the next generation of culinary talent in Louisiana!