Celebrating success: Food Bank of Delaware graduates 14 from workforce training programs

May 1, 2025

The Food Bank of Delaware was filled with pride, joy, and applause today as we celebrated the accomplishments of 16 students who completed our culinary and warehousing/logistics (LOGIC) workforce training programs.

These programs are designed to provide hands-on, real-world experience and industry-recognized credentials to Delawareans seeking new career opportunities. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to personal and professional growth, each graduate has demonstrated what it means to rise above challenges and embrace new beginnings.

New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry provided keynote remarks and told students, “You built a foundation. New Castle County is proud of you. Your success is our success.”

2017 alumnus Cleon Stewart also provided remarks and shared his story. “in 2012 I was facing a life, life in jail. Through the grace of God came home in 2017. I came to the Food Bank for a career. Everything I am is because of the Food Bank.” 

Congratulations to our LOGIC graduates:

• Anthony Brown

• Andrew Connolly

• Jamie Harris

• Donald Lanter

• Andrew Mead

• Crystal McAllister

• Demario Sutherland

These students completed intensive training in warehousing and logistics, including OSHA-10 safety certification, forklift operation, inventory management, and more. Many also participated in hands-on work experience in local businesses, preparing them for meaningful employment in Delaware’s growing warehousing and logistics sector.

Congratulations to our Culinary graduates:

• Zacharias Abbott

• Marcia Cano

• Melissa English

• Wageher (Gigi) Ewusi

• Kristian Mowbray

• Cody Williams

• Latreast Willis

Our culinary students completed 14 weeks of instruction under the guidance of our expert chefs, learning essential kitchen skills, food safety (including ServSafe certification), menu planning, and cooking techniques. With training in both front- and back-of-house operations, they are now prepared to pursue careers in Delaware’s food service and hospitality industry.

During the graduation ceremony, students shared reflections on their journeys—stories of resilience, transformation, and hope. Family members, Food Bank staff, and community supporters gathered to cheer them on as they received certificates of completion and looked ahead to a brighter future.

“This is surreal for me. I came a long way,” said LOGIC graduate, Anthony Brown. “I just came home from doing 17 straight years. It put myself in position while I’m able to win. Wow. Where I’m able to utilize the tools that the Food Bank and the Plummer Center gave me.” 

“We are incredibly proud of these graduates,” said Food Bank of Delaware President and CEO Cathy Kanefsky. “They’ve shown that with support, opportunity, and determination, anything is possible. We can’t wait to see what they’ll accomplish next.”

The Food Bank of Delaware’s workforce training programs are offered at no cost to students and are made possible thanks to the generous support of our community partners and donors. To learn more, click here.