Coastal Alabama Culinary Student, Kevin Thomas, Awarded 2023 Kirk Kirkland Scholarship

Coastal Alabama Community College is proud to announce that Kevin Thomas, a dedicated student pursuing his passion in Culinary Arts, has been awarded the 2023 Kirk Kirkland Scholarship. The ARHA Kirk Kirkland Memorial Scholarship, now co-branded with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) scholarships, annually provides Alabama students with the opportunity to further their education in the restaurant and lodging industry.

The scholarship is a testament to Kevin's commitment to excellence in the field of hospitality, culinary, and food service management. Kevin's enthusiasm for the culinary arts began during his high school years when he worked as a line cook at a local steakhouse in Colorado. His love for the kitchen atmosphere and the joy of cooking laid the foundation for his future in the culinary world.

Kevin's journey into the culinary industry took a more focused turn as he honed his skills in preparing wild game, because his mother refused to cook “that stuff”.  Despite facing societal expectations to pursue a traditional college path, Kevin returned to school after 25 years with a clear purpose — to become a chef and contribute to his community.

Currently working under the mentorship of Chef Brody Olive at Perdido Beach Resort, Kevin is learning as much as possible to achieve his dream of opening his own restaurant. His goal is not merely to create a place for dining but to establish a community hub, contributing to the local supply chain and providing a space that transcends the traditional dining experience.

The Kirk Kirkland Scholarship not only recognizes academic achievement but also emphasizes leadership demonstrated in both on and off-campus activities. Kevin Thomas's passion for culinary arts, coupled with his dedication to community building, aligns perfectly with the values of the scholarship.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must demonstrate an interest in hospitality, culinary, or food service management, and must be accepted into a two or four-year Alabama post-secondary school. Additionally, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, leadership skills, and Alabama residency are key eligibility requirements.

Coastal Alabama Community College congratulates Kevin Thomas on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to witnessing his continued success in the culinary world.