More than 30 high school students from the Hampton County School District recently completed a four-week culinary summer camp at the Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Culinary Institute of the South in Bluffton.
Led by TCL faculty and local chefs, these teenaged campers learned a variety of cooking styles, techniques and real-world culinary skills.
Students were able to attend free of charge, thanks to a special $56,000 grant from the Truist Foundation. The donation covered all student expenses including full chef uniforms, knife kits, notebooks and other supplies as well as bus transportation each day to and from Hampton and the Institute.
Mark Lattanzio, Coastal Market President for Truist, said the company was excited to partner with TCL and the Hampton County School District.
“Our purpose is to inspire and build better lives and communities,” Lattanzio said.
In addition to hands-on learning in the classroom, Montage Palmetto Bluff also hosted campers for a special field trip so that they could learn more about the different aspects of careers in culinary arts and hospitality.
The camp culminated in a special graduation luncheon on Friday, July 28, that was expertly catered by the students for nearly 100 guests including families and other community members.
The 32 graduates were awarded with certificates and one college credit to be applied toward a college program at the Culinary Institute.
President Richard Gough offered special congratulations to the students and said that their new skills would take them far.
“Culinary training is more than just learning how to prepare delicious meals; it is about instilling essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, creativity, and adaptability,” Gough said. “These qualities extend beyond the kitchen, serving as the building blocks of success in any path these students pursue.”
President Gough also thanked Truist for its support.
“The generous contribution from Truist Bank is a catalyst for change, and has created a unique and transformative opportunity for the young minds in our region. Thank you, Truist Bank, for a lasting impact on our community, one young chef at a time,” Gough said.
