On April 2, 2020, The Culinary Institute of America will host its signature fundraising event—the 14th annual Leadership Awards, the “Augies”™—at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. This one-of-a-kind event honors food industry icons whose lifelong achievements reflect the highest standards of our profession, with 100% of the proceeds supporting scholarships that change the lives of talented and motivated CIA students. We are hopeful to obtain auction and/or raffle items to help enhance our Silent Auction: gift cards in the amounts of $75 and up; admission tickets for four (4) or more; tangible items valued $50 or more; and custom experiences/tours etc.

Here is just a taste of what we have in store:

Celebrating Industry Icons: Through this event, the CIA honors world-renowned food business leaders who reflect the CIA’s core values of leadership and professional excellence. Past honorees include: Ferràn Adrià, Paul Bocuse, Thomas Keller, Danny Meyer, Drew Nieporent, Jacques Pépin, Martha Stewart, and Geoffrey Zakarian.

This year’s honorees are being recognized for their commitment to empowering and inspiring future leaders of the industry.  “The Mentors” are:

·        Alice Elliot, founder and CEO of The Elliot Group

·        Abigail Kirsch, founder, Abigail Kirsch Catering Relationships

·        Jon Luther, Chairman of the Board, Arby’s Restaurant Group

·        Charlie Palmer ’79, celebrated chef, owner of nearly 20 restaurants around the U.S. 

·        Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group

Who Will Be There: More than 600 high-profile decision-makers, including renowned chefs; past honorees; CEOs and corporate executives of foodservice and hospitality businesses; food manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors; and food retail and restaurant chains will attend. CIA trustees and fellows, alumni, students, food and wine enthusiasts, and other dignitaries will also join us.

Why Your Sponsorship Matters: More than 90 percent of our students receive financial assistance to realize their dream of a world-class CIA education. Your commitment helps pave their way. Among the benefits you will receive are attendance at this exclusive event—an ideal opportunity to enhance relationships with existing clients, cultivate new relationships, and reward employees; elevate the visibility of your brand; and be photographed for promotional purposes, including use in your social media channels.

Thank you kindly for your consideration in supporting our students!!