Cooks for a Cause raises money for breast cancer research
Kyle Lafontaine serves champagne to the guests.
The Institute of Culinary Arts is known for hosting great events that appeal to the senses. The Institute recently hosted an event entitled “Cooks for a Cause Fine Dining Experience.” Its purpose was to raise money for the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Walk for a Cure. Students orchestrated the whole event down to the menu.
This event was different from other culinary events because it raised money for research on one of the most prevalent cancers in women.
On Saturday, July 21, on the eighth floor at the Chicago campus, there was a formal but very welcoming atmosphere. The event was neatly organized and had classical music played by a string quartet, a raffle, a silent auction, hors d’ouvres and of course, the main attraction was the fine dining experience.
“I’m proud of Robert Morris and how they got involved [in this event]. They got together with Walk for a Cure since they need a lot of money. The culinary students got together and made this event possible,” said Sharon Brabson, Dean of the School of Business. “I like how they used pink in the decorations since it’s for Walk for a Cure and it fits with the theme. They thought of everything.”
Kyle Lafontaine was the front of the house manager who made sure the plates were taken out on time.
“I make sure that everyone is happy, drinks are filled, pouring wine and champagne, and putting smiles on people’s faces,” said Lafontaine.
Everyone who was involved talked to one another and had a good time, enjoying all the decorations and the entire dining room experience.
“It’s fun; it’s a special event. Everyone is enjoying it which means a lot to them, and all in all, I think everyone is having a good time,” said Lafontaine. “[The Cooks for a Cause event] was all by students, which made this event even more special.”
Larry Nieman, Associate Dean of the School of Business, was particularly impressed with the event.
“This is a phenomenal idea because all the proceeds from this will go to a good cause. It’s also a good outreach to the community and shows that we support great causes, and great food all done by our culinary students. It’s great because they are the ones who produced this whole event,” said Nieman.
Nieman not only supported the cause by being there, he also bid on some items during the silent auction. There were many items to bid on like tickets to special events to the Museum of Science and Industry and the Adler Planetarium.
Individuals and faculty donated many of the items.
“There were a lot of good donated items for the cause and I really think there is something here for everyone. I bid often to support the cause,” said Nieman.
Later on in the evening Nancy Rotunno presented a check of $1,000 from the College.
Overall the event raised over $6,000. With such dedicated and supportive students at Robert Morris College the money is bound to have a positive impact on the community.