June 5—The SFM Foundation has awarded $15,000 in academic scholarships to two high school seniors. The Foundation awards scholarships to students who have been accepted into full-time foodservice-related programs.
The two students for 2009 are: Jay Cousin of Chesapeake, Va., who was accepted to Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts and Business Management program, was awarded a $10,000 scholarship; and Jesse Orrill of Flagstaff, Ariz., who was also accepted to Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts program, was awarded a $5,000 scholarship.“The SFM Undergraduate Merit Scholarship Program encourages leadership and raises awareness within this growing industry," Scott Siers, chair of the SFM Foundation Board of Directors, said in a press release. "We are thrilled to be able to offer this program year after year in the hopes of relieving a small portion of the burden of college tuition while rewarding academic excellence."
The scholarships are awarded based on a strong interest in on-site foodservice, GPA, work experience, letter of recommendation and a written essay. The Foundation also offers grants to colleges and universities that offer on-site foodservice courses. Since 2000, the Foundation has awarded 49 scholarships. The money for the scholarship is collected through several SFM fundraisers including the annual silent auction at the national conference, an annual golf tournament and schmooze cruise.