In early 2004, George Brown College joined forces with ALMA, the world-famous Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana, to offer GBC culinary students the opportunity to learn — and live — near Parma, Italy. On January 31, this 20-year partnership was the focus of Celebrating Italia, a special event that brought friends from near and far (including Consul General of Italy, and Michelin-starred Chef Ernesto Iaccarino) to mark the occasion.
“Our 20-year collaboration with ALMA has provided invaluable opportunities for our students to immerse themselves in the rich cultural experiences offered by Italy,” said Rudolf Fischbacher, Dean, Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts, George Brown College. “It is with great pride that we reflect on the numerous success stories, cross-cultural connections, and shared learning that have emerged from this successful partnership. We look forward to another two decades of shared success and impactful collaboration.”
George Brown’s Advanced Italian Culinary Arts students, who returned from Italy in December, created a spectacular menu for the Celebrating Italia walk-around reception. Guests were also treated to regional-themed tasting stations, and even had a taste of two-Michelin-starred Italian cuisine — courtesy of Chef Iaccarino and the team at Don Alfonso.
Andrea Sinigaglia, General Manager, ALMA, presented this year’s returning culinary graduate students with their certificates at the event.
“We are truly excited to sail into our 20th year of partnership and to renew our commitment to the training of young professionals in the hospitality industry who have chosen our schools to build their professional future,” said Sinigaglia.
Congratulations to all involved — and here’s to another 20 years of saying “Sì, chef!”
