Enrique Olvera, chef and owner of Pujol in Mexico City, delivered the
commencement address at The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde
Park, NY on Friday, September 25, 2009.
Chef Olvera earned his bachelor's degree from the CIA in 1999 then returned to his hometown to open Pujol the following year. His restaurant is widely recognized as one of Mexico's most interesting and creative gastronomic destinations. Food & Wine magazine has recognized Olvera, 33, among the "Ten Next Chef Superstars" in the world.
"Having a degree from The Culinary Institute of America will open many doors for you, not only in the U.S., but everywhere around the world," Chef Olvera advised 77 recipients of associate degrees in culinary arts and baking & pastry arts. "Make the most of your education and never forget what you learned here: preparation and good craftsmanship."
In the decade since graduating from the CIA, Chef Olvera has remained connected to the college. He was a presenter at the first "Latin Flavors, American Kitchen" conference at the CIA's San Antonio, TX campus in 2008, and CIA students seeking to fulfill their required externship field experience at an international location may do so at Chef Olvera's restaurant.
Chef Olvera earned his bachelor's degree from the CIA in 1999 then returned to his hometown to open Pujol the following year. His restaurant is widely recognized as one of Mexico's most interesting and creative gastronomic destinations. Food & Wine magazine has recognized Olvera, 33, among the "Ten Next Chef Superstars" in the world.
"Having a degree from The Culinary Institute of America will open many doors for you, not only in the U.S., but everywhere around the world," Chef Olvera advised 77 recipients of associate degrees in culinary arts and baking & pastry arts. "Make the most of your education and never forget what you learned here: preparation and good craftsmanship."
In the decade since graduating from the CIA, Chef Olvera has remained connected to the college. He was a presenter at the first "Latin Flavors, American Kitchen" conference at the CIA's San Antonio, TX campus in 2008, and CIA students seeking to fulfill their required externship field experience at an international location may do so at Chef Olvera's restaurant.
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