Addressing Final Changes to Cia Baking and Pastry Curriculum

Hello all,

Thank you for your overwhelming support. When publishing the petition, we were unsure what the outcome would be. The response that we got from our peers went above and beyond even our wildest expectations. It is heartening to see the student body be on the same page about this. 

On Monday, October 2nd, we met with Dean Haymon, the Associate Dean of Baking and Pastry, and Dean Tragni, the Dean of Academic Engagement & Administration. They wanted to answer our questions and hear some of our thoughts about the curriculum change.

We have been reassured that the deans are fully confident and proud of the new course that has been crafted. This course will include learning skills surrounding restaurant production including production planning, the nutritional aspects of baking, and inventory control. Bake shop 9 has been newly renovated to create a space which allows for the baking and pastry school to begin its growth into the future. In order to accommodate for the gap in curriculum for restaurant service, there will be a mock service added to the plated desserts course. 

For those baking and pastry students who still want the opportunity to work in one of the restaurants on campus, the deans have reassured us that if wanted, there are going to be extra earn-and-learn positions available to accommodate for the new curriculum change. 

We understand that many of you may not be satisfied with this result. Unfortunately, as far as our abilities go, we've taken this movement as far as we can and we have been informed that this decision is final. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact Dean Haymon at marc.haymon@culinary.edu or Dean Tragni at carolyn.tragni@culinary.edu. We are hopeful to continue the legacy of the Culinary Institute of America as alumni have done in the past. While many might still be feeling disappointed about this change, continued communication between the students and the administration will help this program grow and change as time goes on. Encourage the changes you’d like to see and be well.

Your Peers,

Anders Browne, Alyssa Goodwin, and Ellie Webster