Alumni in the News: February 2026
Career Shifts Gerard Kenny ’11 was named executive chef at Hotel Viata, a boutique retreat outside Austin, TX, where he will oversee food and…
Culinary School Blog
Welcome to the Culinary Institute of America blog. Find admissions tips, campus life, cooking videos, alumni news, and more.
Topic
What It Takes to Become a Michelin Star Chef: a Step-by-Step Career Guide
Earning a Michelin star for your restaurant signals to diners and the culinary world that they should expect the “best of the best” the…
Student Spotlight: Khamaree Howard
Student Khamaree Howard shares her CIA journey, hands-on training, leadership, and goals to mentor others and open her own restaurant.
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Tour Campus or Attend an Online Event
Whether you’re looking to visit one of our campuses or would prefer the convenience of a virtual event, there’s no better way to learn more about CIA than with one of our admissions events.
Student Spotlight: Ben Dorsey
Meet Ben Dorsey, a CIA student building culinary and business skills, friendships, and a path toward opening his own restaurant.
CIA Externship Spotlight: Mariana Suarez on Externship at Cannúa Lodge Hotel in Columbia
Follow Mariana Suarez’s CIA externship at Cannúa Lodge Hotel in Colombia—blending pastry skills with local flavors and farm-to-table experience.
Student Spotlight: Ava Swank
Student Spotlight: Ava Swank shares her CIA experience, pastry training, and goals of working in fine dining and opening her own bakery.
Faculty Spotlight: Roshara Sanders ’12/’14
Faculty Spotlight: Chef Roshara Sanders shares her journey, leadership, and mission to empower women in hospitality through mentorship and innovation.
Student Spotlight: Spencer Torp
Spencer Torp blends culinary arts and beverage studies at CIA, gaining skills, community, and industry-ready experience.
Jennifer Lee Jackson ’08 and Justin Tootla ’09: A CIA Love Story
CIA alumni and partners Jennifer Lee Jackson ’08 and Justin Tootla ’09 share their love story—from CIA kitchens to competing on Top Chef season 23.
Twelve Top Careers in Hospitality and Tourism Management
Learn more about top hospitality management positions in our in-depth look at hospitality management careers.
All In for a Night of Fun—Casino Night at CIA
Casino Night at CIA transformed the Student Rec Center into a high-energy casino with games, prizes, music, and unforgettable campus fun.
What Does a Sous Chef Do? Inside This Vital Kitchen Role
Learn what a sous chef does, from their duties and responsibilities in the kitchen to their career possibilities and potential pay.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Learn more about CIA events, scholarships, career options, and campus life.