Emily Willardson from Wasatch High School in Heber, Utah, received the 2024 Entrepreneurship Award from Kendall College National Louis University and the Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education (CAFÉ). The award was open to culinary instructors nationwide and recognized ideas and initiatives that positively impacted an educational setting and community.

Willardson spearheaded the creation of a business, Cafe Pollinate, to bring teachers hot, healthy lunches delivered to their classroom. The educator drew inspiration from her entrepreneurial roots – Willardson owned a bread business prior to teaching. This background allowed her to provide a rich learning experience for her students. 

The educator worked with students to create recipes and worked with a focus group of teachers to receive feedback on proposed menu items. The response was so positive they decided to expand the student business.

Willardson guided students through the process of measuring costs while staying within a budget and developing a business plan including a name, logo, menu, packaging, and payment system. The impact of her establishment was significant: teachers loved the meals and students gained hands-on experience in both the culinary and business realms of foodservice. 

Click here to go back to the 2024 CAFÉ award recipients list.