Hospitality & Food Management students from the Career Tech Center participated in the Michigan ProStart Competition, hosted by the Michigan Hospitality Foundation in Battle Creek, March 14-16. The event brought together students from 39 schools across the state to compete in a variety of culinary and hospitality events.
In Cake Decorating, Nadia Luce (Ravenna) and Sophia Brown (Mona Shores) earned second place. Their performance also led to an invitation to demonstrate their skills during the Michigan Restaurant Show in Plymouth, April 14–16.
In the Knife Cuts category, Alix Draves (Montague) placed third, and Sophia Brown placed fourth.
In the Management Team competition—Alix Draves, Justice Hill (Holton), and Kayden Carillo (Fruitport)—earned fifth place for their presentation and planning.
In the ServSafe Knowledge Bowl, Oscar Zaremba (Whitehall), Alix Draves, and Robert Castillo (Calvary) placed first, demonstrating their understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
Two teams tied for fifth place in Tabletop Design: Frankie Hoxsie (Ravenna), Brayden Burrows (Muskegon), and Jalen Adams-Blackman (Muskegon); and Abigail Brentana (Mona Shores), Claudia Bazzett (Orchard View), and Bella Vitale (Oakridge).
“ProStart has been my favorite part of the school year. It introduced me to so many career opportunities and connections. I plan to pursue a culinary career after graduation,” said Sophia Brown.
In addition, Hospitality & Food Management instructor Elissa Penzar was named the 2025 Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Hospitality Foundation, recognizing her contributions to career and technical education.
