Students of Indigenous descent entering their first year of study in the two-year Culinary Arts program or entering the one-year Pastry Arts program are now eligible to apply for a full-tuition award established by Chef Michael Smith and Chastity Smith, proprietors of The Inn at Bay Fortune.

The Inn at Bay Fortune Culinary Arts / Pastry Arts Award for Indigenous Students of Atlantic Canada will be available to students entering their first year of study starting in 2022. The Smiths are honouring Indigenous heritage by investing in the next generation of Indigenous chefs.  In addition to establishing this award through an investment of approximately $75,000 over six years, they will offer on-the-job training for the selected recipients at The Inn at Bay Fortune in Souris, P.E.I.

“We strive to share the very best of the Island with all who visit, and through this award we seek to honour and learn from those who first walked this land and made it their own,” said Chef Michael Smith. 

Chef Austin Clement, Program Manager of The Culinary Institute of Canada said the award offers an exciting opportunity for incoming students.

“We were delighted to hear of the establishment of the award. A full-tuition award will have an incredible impact on a student’s life,” he said. “To work in the kitchen of The Inn at Bay Fortune with Chef Michael for their on-the-job training as well is a wonderful opportunity.” 

“This gift to the Holland College Foundation is absolutely wonderful,” said Holland College President, Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald. “Not only does it represent an investment in the educational journeys of students and the training of future chefs, it strengthens our relationship with, and connection to, our Indigenous communities. We are so grateful to the Smiths for their generous support.” 

Applications for the 2022/2023 academic year are now being accepted at hollandcollege.com. Recipients who are in the two-year Culinary Arts program will be eligible to have the award renewed for their second year of study. To learn more about establishing a scholarship, bursary, or award, contact the Holland College Foundation at foundation@hollandcollege.com, (902) 566-9582, or visit www.hollandcollege.com/foundation. Find out more about awards available to Holland College here.

In this picture: Chef Michael and Chastity Smith, proprietors of The Inn at Bay Fortune. The Smiths have established The Inn at Bay Fortune Culinary Arts / Pastry Arts Award for Indigenous Students of Atlantic Canada.