SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts has announced the expansion of its partnership with two-time Emmy-nominated Top Chef host and NY Times best-selling author Kristen Kish in 2026, broadening her Chef-in-Residence role to include new student initiatives, virtual mentoring, and experiential opportunities that connect aspiring chefs to real-world culinary perspectives.
Building on a milestone inaugural year, Kish’s 2026 new initiatives will include virtual office hours, expanded campus events such as the Young Escoffier competition, multimedia content, and an international stop in Canada for the on-the-road edition of Escoffier’s The Ultimate Dish podcast. Each initiative reflects Kish’s thoughtful approach to mentorship and Escoffier’s belief that true culinary learning grows from curiosity, community, and hands-on experience.
“This first year has been about connection—sharing ideas, experiences, and perspectives,” Kish said. “As we look ahead, I’m excited to build on those conversations —to listen, to create, and to help students discover confidence in their own culinary voice.”
Kish’s continued partnership reflects Escoffier’s mission to connect students with leading culinary voices and offer unique opportunities for growth, creativity, and professional insight. That impact, according to Escoffier leadership, is already visible in classrooms and across campuses.
“Kristen has elevated the dialogue in our classrooms,” said Kirk T. Bachmann, Boulder campus president and provost. “She has challenged students to think critically about their craft and inspired chef instructors to explore new approaches to teaching. Her influence is measurable — in student participation, in faculty engagement, and in the confidence we see developing in our graduates.”
Escoffier leaders agree that Kish’s presence has influenced both students and faculty. Kathleen Ahearn, Escoffier’s vice president of academic affairs, added that Kish’s involvement contributes to a richer and more connected learning environment. “Kristen’s influence has encouraged students to slow down, ask questions, and connect their passion to purpose,” Ahearn said. “Her work embodies the kind of reflective, values-driven learning we champion at Escoffier—one rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and care for the craft.”
During her first year, Kish engaged with 500+ Escoffier students and chef instructors through live and virtual Q&A sessions, seminars, and campus visits. She participated in culinary-focused conversations, appeared on The Ultimate Dish podcast, and took part in Escoffier’s Young Escoffier high school culinary scholarship competition, encouraging the next generation of culinarians.
During her inaugural year as Chef-in-Residence, Kish participated in numerous events and educational initiatives that strengthened student engagement and professional development opportunities, including:
- Escoffier Keynote Commencement Speaker: Delivered commencement addresses for graduates, encouraging students to embrace individuality and curiosity in their craft.
- Austin Campus Q&A: Connected with more than 60 students in a discussion on her culinary journey, memoir Accidentally on Purpose, and the importance of finding one’s voice in the kitchen.
- Live and Virtual Seminars: Led dynamic sessions on creative risk-taking, flavor exploration, and the intersection of culture and cuisine, reaching students across Boulder, Austin, and online programs.
- Escoffier Content Creation: Authored thought-provoking articles for Escoffier, including “Finding Power and Purpose as a Woman in the Culinary Industry,” “The Evolution of Modern Hospitality,” and “Defining Personal Wellness in the Food Industry.”
- Young Escoffier Competition Participation: Interacted with high-school competitors, reinforcing Escoffier’s commitment to early culinary education and outreach.
- Podcast Appearance: Featured on The Ultimate Dish podcast discussing culinary education, authenticity in cooking, and leadership through creativity.
