Chef Auction Raises Over $40,000 for Student Scholarships

The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Foundation recently hosted its third annual Chef Auction at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown, successfully raising over $40,000 to support local students pursuing higher education.

Since assuming responsibility for the Chef Auction in 2023, the Foundation has amassed more than $150,000 in total funds. All proceeds from this year's event will benefit the Supporting Scholars Fund and future culinary arts scholarships at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College. The Supporting Scholars Fund includes three distinct scholarships awarded annually: the Destination Graduation, Emerging Leader, and Presidential Scholarships.

Thirteen culinary students, along with Chef and Culinary Instructor John Dusack, prepared appetizers for the opening reception. Supporting Scholars Gina Pettenati and Syd Scott also contributed to the event's preparation and staffing.

“We are grateful to all those who helped make this event possible,” stated Carole VanMeter, Director of the Foundation. “The Chef Auction has not only been a great fundraiser for the College, but it has also enabled our culinary students to showcase the skills and experiences they acquired in the classroom, which they can apply in the workforce.”

Eight local restaurants participated in providing dinner for more than 150 attendees, with some also supplying packages for the live auction. These establishments included Balance Restaurant, Big Spring Spirits, Conemaugh Medical Center, Harrigan’s Cafe & Wine Deck, Omni Bedford Springs, Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Tulunes In The City, and Viva Verde.

The event featured 20 silent auction items and eight live auction packages. Additionally, five luxury vacations were awarded in a separate auction, and a 50/50 drawing was held. Overall, more than $25,000 was raised, which was complemented by a $15,000 donation from the 1889 Foundation, bringing the grand total to over $40,000.

HHS served as the Top Chef sponsor for the event, while UPMC Altoona and Worklink Staffing acted as Master Chef sponsors. Notably, four of this year’s participating restaurants have already committed to attending next year’s Chef Auction.

The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Foundation actively seeks financial support for the College and its students by cultivating relationships, raising funds, and managing resources effectively.