Johnson & Wales University is honored to celebrate 50 years of the College of Food Innovation & Technology. Since its inception in 1973, the program has evolved its approach to education and remained on the cutting edge of culinary excellence. 

We take great pride in educating and preparing the next generation of culinary and food leaders.

There will be several events to honor the occasion throughout the year. Learn more below, dates will be updated as they are finalized, so be sure to check back for updates.

Event Schedule

Monday, September 12 | Charlotte

Charlotte Food Truck Night, 5 pm 
Renowned chef, TV host and entrepreneur Tyler Florence ’94,’04 Hon. will make a special appearance! Bring your family and support your fellow alumni food truck owners, Andarrio Johnson ’00 (Cuzzo’s Cuisine Food Truck), Josh Parel ’11 (Screamery Creamery Dessert Truck and Chili Man 2.0 cart) and Craig Barbour ’08 (Truck ’54) and enjoy some delicious food and beverages during this special event. 

Tuesday, September 13 | Charlotte

Epicurean Society Event 
For Epicurean Society members only. For more information or to join click the link above.   

Monday, November 14 | Universitywide

Cook Along with JWU 
It's never too early to start prepping for Thanksgiving! This year, we're excited to have CFIT instructor Kelly Fernandes ’11 create a great thanksgiving side dish. She’ll be sharing a simple yet very tasty recipe for Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Crispy Spanish Chorizo and Manchego.
 
This is the recipe that made Kelly fall in love with sprouts and when she was a line cook, it was on the fall menu at a small, locally sourced restaurant in Newton, Massachusetts.
 
To view the recipe and ingredients, click here

Wednesday, November 16 | Universitywide

JWU Connects: Alumni Executives in the Food Space Discuss Innovation & Evolution

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the College of Food Innovation & Technology, alumni executives in the food space will come together for this virtual discussion. Their conversation will focus on decision making and developing creative solutions to problems, leading during uncertain times and developing the talent within their organizations.

The panel was moderated by Jason R. Evans, Ph.D., dean of the College of Food Innovation & Technology and featured:

Nancy Fuentes ‘11, president, Gloria’s Latin Cuisine

Michael Levine ‘12, chief executive officer, Global Food Solutions

Houston Striggow ‘79, chief operating officer, Susiecakes

November 29-30 | Providence

Events with Chef Lorena Garcia '00, '14 Hon.

JWU trustee and 2022 Food Entrepreneur in Residence, Lorena Garcia '00, '14 Hon., was on campus in Provdience for a pair of exciting events in November. On Tuesday, November 29, we were excited to host Around the Kitchen Table with Chef Lorena Garcia '00, '14 Hon.! Over the course of the hour, Chef Garcia discussed her time at JWU, what she's learned in the industry, her leadership style, the evolution of her career and what is coming next in the food and beverage space.

The next day, she was a judge for JWU's annual Future Food All-Stars Challenge. Chef Garcia has been mentoring students all semester as the 2022 Food Entrepreneur in Residence and the top three teams competed for a cash prize!

November | Providence

Epicurean Society Event 
For Epicurean Society members only. For more information or to join click the link above.    

Wednesday, December 14 | Universitywide

Pizza Quest: Peter Reinhart's Never-Ending Search for the Perfect Pizza! 
Based on his latest book by the same name, Peter features some of the most famous pizza makers in America and honors them with his own special tribute recipes to make it easy for YOU to replicate these world-renowned pies at home!

Peter will share stories and photos about the contributors as well as discussing his ongoing quest for perfect pizza. When it comes to this journey, pizza is only the tip of the iceberg.

Monday - Wednesday, March 6-7 | Providence

FIT Symposium 
The 2023 FIT Symposium is back in Providence March, 6-7. Join us for this annual gathering of innovators, entrepreneurs and thought leaders to inspire change toward a better food system.
 
This year's event has both in-person and virtual ticketing options. 


Learn More & Register Today!

April | Providence

Alumni Leaders on Campus
By invitation only.

Monday, May 22 | Chicago

Alumni & Industry Reception
The Alumni & Industry Reception in Chicago during the National Restaurant Association Show returned in May! Click here to view photo from the event.

Friday, September 29 | Providence

CFIT 50th Anniversary Gala
 

JWU’s College of Food Innovation & Technology (CFIT) graduates have transformed the American food landscape as chefs, nutritionists, product developers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Over the next 50 years, they will continue to make their mark, redefining the economic, community, and ecological impacts of the food system.

On September 29, 2023, JWU will celebrate its storied contributions to food education with a 50th Anniversary Gala that will include recognition of the life and work of food icon Jacques Pépin '10 Hon.

This memorable night will begin with a 5pm VIP cocktail reception with Chef Pépin and our special invited guests. At 6pm, Gala attendees will experience the talents of alumni chefs and restaurateurs, current JWU faculty and students and retired JWU faculty at food stations throughout the Culinary Arts Museum.

Event proceeds will support scholarships, travel, and educational experiences for CFIT students.

Purchase VIP tickets

Purchase General Admission tickets