Food connects us here on Guam – it’s tradition, inspiration, and the heart of so many family stories. And today, the Guam Community College celebrated a major step forward in preparing the next generation of chefs who will carry those traditions on.
On Guam, food is more than what’s on the plate – its a craft, a tradition, and a source of pride passed from one generation to the next. It brings people together – from kids learning beside parents in outdoor kitchens to students turning that spark into a profession.
Now, that journey continues inside Guam Community College’s newly renovated Culinary Arts and Baking Center. Started by retired professor Barry Meade, GCC president Dr. Mary Okada says his dedication to this program paved the way for years of student success.
Before renovation, students shared a single 2,750-square-foot kitchen. Today, they’re stepping into a state-of-the-art, 5,500-square-foot training kitchen equipped with all the tools they’ll need to master their trade.
Dr. Okada thanked the many people who helped guide the project from planning to completion, saying, “You have all been part of our expanded culinary and baking program.”
With a special recognition of Guam's leaders and their collaboration, “ Si Yu'os ma'åse' to both of you for your support for our students. You certainly have kept the dough rolling for many years," said Okada. “Our return is that we demonstrate the right plan and innovation, and that we have been able to deliver high quality results that support our students.”
In addition to Adelup’s assistance, GCC pushed to secure federal higher education emergency relief funds before they expired. And their persistence paid off, allowing the college to build a safer, more spacious, and fully modern learning environment, led by their “super star culinary team”.
“But I’d also like to give a big shout out to our super star culinary team. Chef Kenny, Chef Paul, Chef Burtron, and to all Pro-Start chefs that support our secondary programs. Thank you for continuing to train the next generations of chefs for our islands," Okada added.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero praised GCC’s transformation, noting that food is central to Guam’s culture and economy, saying , “So really, this isn’t just about a ribbon cutting for a facility, it is about a ribbon cutting that is so essential to our lives, to continuing our lives here. That is why Josh [Tenorio] and I gave a lot of dough to GCC to roll it out.”
Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio echoed that message, commending GCC’s leadership for consistently putting students first. “The students that we have before us, I think, are just wonderful to celebrate. This is an investment in you and all of the students that are going to be following in your footsteps," he said.
A blessing from Pale’ Joe English set the tone for the center’s purpose, saying, “Bless this center, Oh Lord. May it be a place where creativity is sparked, where skills are honed with integrity, and where students learn not only the art of cuisine, but also the values of service, collaboration and hospitality.”
After the ribbon was cut, guests sampled dishes prepared by culinary and baking students – a first look at the creativity the new space will nurture. Through GCC's mission of providing high-quality, student-centered training, the culinary arts and baking center will continue shaping the chefs who redefine the island’s flavors.