Here are a few testimonials from the 2025 CAFÉ Deans & Directors Retreat:

• “This is my first CAFÉ conference, and I have found it very educational thus far. Being in a space with fellow chef instructors, leaders and deans has been helpful. I’ve taken so many notes so far.”

• “Every panel and discussion board has been super helpful.”

• “I really enjoyed all of the panels.” 

• “I would be very interested in presenting at next year’s retreat. I feel that there is a desire for formal teaching techniques as well as a fundamental of learning theory.” 

• “Great job as always. High quality conference and speakers.”

• “First time, great experience!”

• “Excellent as always!”

• “This has been a great day. The topics covered were up to date on current issues in this industry. Great panels with tons of answers for us.”

• “I have been inspired and educated by the contact of this retreat so far. Many subjects that were touched on are subjects that I am interested in.”

• “My second conference and I am truly impressed with the group.”

The CAFÉ Dean’s and Director’s Retreat and Leadership Conference are perfect forums for this type of interaction and mutual learning and this year’s topic of CHANGE was certainly an appropriate theme. Funds are always in short supply but attendance at this year’s conferences (our feedback over the years proves this out), are an investment in your future and that of your institution.  

Thank you for your ongoing support! 

Mary Petersen
Executive Editor, Gold Medal Classroom
President, Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education

2026 CAFÉ Conference

We are proud to announce that Kendall College will be our 2026 host of the CAFÉ events: Deans and Directors Retreat, June 22, 2026, followed by the Leadership Conference, June 22-25, 2026.

Kendall College/National Louis University, is located on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. It is directly across from some of the most wonderful sites in a major U.S. city. Kendall has been a long-time partner of CAFÉ’s and we are excited to be working with them on behalf of the culinary / hospitality / baking / pastry instructors from around the U.S. 

More information to come – SAVE THE DATE! June 22 - 25, 2026

 2026 CAFÉ Award Information Coming Soon!

Have you checked out CAFÉ Talks Podcast?

Our host, Paul Sorgule has spearheaded this podcast and has done a wonderful job. He has interviewed over 100 of the most influential people in education, culinary classrooms, the foodservice industry, leadership, innovation, culinary history, and management – there is something for everyone to relish and use. 

Have you thought about integrating the CAFÉ Talks Podcast into your student curriculum for an assignment? Have you thought "I really wish I could remember which podcast pertained to a certain subject?"

Paul Sorgule, has created an organized chart that demonstrates where each interview might apply in your classrooms as assignments or a point of reference for faculty.  

Click here to download your copy of the chart.

We could not have produced this podcast series if it wasn't for our sponsors who we thank very much for their continued support of CAFÉ.