Kitchen School Graduates Embark on Bright Futures

April 16, 2025

This morning, we celebrated the latest graduating class of The Kitchen School at the Food Bank of Delaware in Newark.

Congratulations to:

• Bryan Blackwell
• Noah Bradshaw
• Aaron Green
• Bradley Joyner
• Yaw Kyeadea-Amponsah
• Haviere Phillips-Gardner
• Elijah Schwab
• Xavier Stevenson
• Ci’Airah Williams

Over the past 12 weeks, our students have honed their culinary skills, gained hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting, and, perhaps most importantly, discovered the power of confidence, discipline, and perseverance.

Kitchen School Alumna Brianna Cooper provided inspiring keynote remarks. ” As you leave this chapter behind and embark on your journey, take pride in what you’ve accomplished and excitement for what lies ahead,” she said. 

From learning new skills to serving customers in the Discover Cafe, these graduates have tackled every challenge with determination and grit. They’ve chopped, sautéed, baked, and plated their way to a brighter future.

In his remarks to the graduates, Chef Instructor Rob Taylor said, “Food creates memories, and there are a lot of memories to be shared by this class. It’s amazing what a little support, encouragement, and advocacy can do to help.”

Students had the opportunity to earn ServSafe® certification, get real-world experience, develop soft skills like time management, customer service and teamwork and job-readiness support like resume building, interviewing and job placement assistance.

Graduate Bradley Joyner worked at Food Lion and attended class. He told attendees that he suffers from epilepsy. “I just wanted to say thank you to everyone,” he said. “I barely could get a job because I had seizures. I have all of these people around me that helped me. It wouldn’t have been possible without you guys.”

To learn more about The Kitchen School, click here.