by Yves Chambaz, March 29, 2018

It was the summer of 2012 when I met Carl Galvan from Supreme Lobster. He needed a student volunteer for a seafood tasting station that his company was putting together for the chefs at Chicago Gourmet. Since then, I have not only gained a friend in the industry, but also, I have participated in many events around the city and the suburbs with Supreme Lobster. At many of these events I joined as a volunteer, since the purpose of the gathering has been to raise funds for diverse causes.

For the past 5 years, I have had the pleasure of joining Carl and Supreme Lobster at the Grand Chefs Gala, raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a global spearhead in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis and spread of awareness about this disease. There I have had the chance to meet other young professionals like me, including other Kendall students. I have made great connections with other chefs in the city, purveyors, influencers, and other donors. Last February, at the Field Museum, I met and worked alongside an oyster farmer from Washington, and I reunited with a seafood purveyor from New York that I met the first time I volunteered for this cause. I also ran into some chefs that I have had the pleasure of working with in the city. I could recognize the faces of some guests from previous years, and a few remembered me.

The highlight of the night was the donations that were vested in the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Everybody involved collaborated for the success of this great cause. From the location to the food, from the service to the entertainment. Many others like me, unable to contribute monetarily, filled in to make this event a reality. My shout out goes to the philanthropists that make all those volunteering efforts fruitful. Ultimately, they contribute to keep the wheels in motion.

I feel extremely grateful for the aid that the Kendall College Trust has extended to me. For the instructors that have gone the extra mile to make sure that the content of their programs was properly assimilated, and for the administrative staff that with a smile and dedication help and motivate us daily. We are in this together, for a common goal, and every little bit of help counts.

After 5 quarters at Kendall I look forward to my next year and to walking in the commencement ceremony in summer 2018. I have learned a great deal about the nuts and bolts of the hospitality industry, from professionals in the different areas of the business. I have also met great people, mostly with international background. Balancing work and school is not an easy task. Thanks to the support of Kendall College Trust I can focus on my education with less economic worries, finding a balance in my life. Without the support from our donors, myself and others would have a harder time being able to achieve their professional goals.

photo credit: Soda Fountain Photography