#USA #New York #Culinary Institute #Leadership Awards #Culinary Innovators

Celebrating Culinary Excellence at the CIA Leadership Awards

On May 5, 2025, the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) hosted its 18th annual Leadership Awards at New York's prestigious Ziegfeld Ballroom, shining a spotlight on five exceptional culinary professionals—Elizabeth Blau, Brandon Chrostowski, Ann Cooper, I. Pano Karatassos, and Marcus Samuelsson. Each honoree received the coveted Augie™ award in recognition of their transformative contributions to the food, beverage, and hospitality sector.

The evening was a grand affair, attended by over 500 leaders from the hospitality industry, celebrity chefs, and influential figures from diverse fields. The event celebrated not only the talent and creativity of the honorees but also aimed at raising funds for scholarships, benefitting CIA students, the majority of whom depend on financial assistance to pursue their culinary dreams. The event was emceed by Chef Dara Yu, CIA alum and MasterChef season 12 winner, whose presence added a touch of star power to the already illustrious gathering.

Impact of the Honorees

Each of the five honorees has made an undeniable impact on the culinary landscape, and their innovations have reverberated throughout the industry:

• - Elizabeth Blau: A visionary in transforming Las Vegas into a premier dining destination, she redefined the culinary scene with her unique approach and commitment to quality.
• - Brandon Chrostowski: An alumnus from the class of 2006, he founded the EDWINS Leadership and Restaurant Institute, dedicated to providing formerly incarcerated individuals a second chance through culinary training and employment.
• - Ann Cooper: Renowned for her ambitious goal of revolutionizing school food programs, her efforts have sparked a nationwide movement towards healthier, more sustainable options for students.
• - I. Pano Karatassos: With a mission of putting Atlanta on the culinary map, his contributions have not only enhanced the local dining experience but also showcased the city's rich gastronomic potential.
• - Marcus Samuelsson: Known as a culinary prodigy, Samuelsson is celebrated for being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from The New York Times and has won a remarkable eight James Beard Foundation Awards.

CIA President Michiel Bakker praised the honorees, stating, "Each of these individuals embodies the spirit of inquiry, bold dreaming, and impactful change—qualities that serve as inspiration for our students as they embark on their own journeys in the culinary world."

The Augie Award

Named in honor of the legendary chef Auguste Escoffier, the Augie award signifies a commitment to excellence and creativity in the culinary arts. The CIA has awarded it since 2007 to industry leaders who exemplify the spirit and traits needed to drive innovation in the food and hospitality sectors.

During the evening, several CIA alumni, including Chrostowski and others, served as guest chefs, contributing an exquisite array of culinary masterpieces for the cocktail and dessert reception. The event also saw participation from 40 CIA students, some from the institute’s campus in Singapore, who acted as student ambassadors, helping to create an engaging ambiance for the attendees.

Supporting Future Generations

The CIA Leadership Awards not only celebrate past achievements but also emphasize the importance of investing in future culinary leaders. Thanks to the generosity of critical sponsors including PepsiCo and Unilever Food Solutions, as well as other platinum, gold, silver, and bronze sponsors, the funds raised during the event will help provide scholarships, ensuring that aspiring chefs from all backgrounds have access to quality education at the CIA.

Founded in 1946, the CIA is recognized globally as the leading culinary institution, aimed at nurturing future leaders in foodservice and hospitality through dedicated programs across multiple campuses. With a network of nearly 55,000 alumni, the CIA continues to shape the food industry, driving innovation and excellence to new heights.

For those wishing to learn more about upcoming events and programs, or to support their mission, visit The Culinary Institute of America.