Some 400 students from about 40 high schools from all over Florida this month competed in the ProStart Culinary Team Competition and the Hospitality & Tourism Management (HTM) competition that was organized by The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) Education Foundation.
While the competition was intense in the 24th annual event, it ended with the distribution in more than $1.6 million in scholarships to the students who received recognition for their efforts. The scholarships were offered from several institutions including the Culinary Institute of America, Culinary Institute of Virginia, Florida International University, Keiser University, Nicholls State University, University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality and Hillsborough Culinary Academies at Erwin Technical College.
“We are incredibly proud of the talent and dedication shown by these students during the 24th annual ProStart and HTM events,” said Laura Rumer, director of the FRLA Educational Foundation. “These competitions highlight their skills and passion for the industry. It’s inspiring to see so many receive scholarships and recognition for their hard work. Congratulations to all the winners, and we look forward to seeing them represent Florida at the national ProStart Invitational in Washington, D.C. this May.”
The overall winners for culinary competitions were Martin County High School from Stuart finishing first. Strawberry Crest High School from Dover came in second with Wekiva High School from Apopka coming in third. South Lake High School from Groveland and Fort Pierce Central High School tied for fourth and there was a tie for fifth between George Jenkins High School from Lakeland and Lyman High School from Longwood.
There were also awards issued for culinary, hospitality management, edible centerpiece, waiters relay competitions.
The overall winners for hospitality included Stoneman Douglas High School from Parkland finishing first, Colonial High School from Orlando in second and Osceola High School from Kissimmee.
Other honors for hospitality also included hotel operations, hospitality project and a knowledge bowl.
“As the state’s top industry, hospitality is at the heart of Florida’s economy, and these high school students are its future,” said Carol Dover, president and CEO of the FRLA. “We are thrilled to support their growth through programs like ProStart and HTM, which provide them with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in this dynamic field. With the largest ProStart program nationwide and the unique distinction of being the only state to host a statewide HTM contest, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.”
Drew Dixon is a journalist of 40 years who has reported in print and broadcast throughout Florida, starting in Ohio in the 1980s. He is also an adjunct professor of philosophy and ethics at three colleges, Jacksonville University, University of North Florida and Florida State College at Jacksonville. You can reach him at [email protected].
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