ProStart Bootcamp - Sweet Briar

Description

Join us for a comprehensive ProStart Bootcamp, designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of culinary students, management students, and ProStart educators.

VIRGINIA PROSTART VISITS SWEET BRIAR COLLEGE
A Culinary & Agricultural Experience

AGENDA

• 9:00 AM – Arrival & Welcome - Location: Wales Conference Center 
  • Meet Brian Stanley, Director of Hospitality. Light refreshments provided. - Brian has been working for over 25 years working with the ProStart program in the Carolinas.  He serves as the Assistant Lead National Judge for the Hospitality Competition through the National Restaurant Association. 
  • Note: We have a security gate once you arrive on campus, please let them know you are visiting the Conference Center.  Parking will take place at the Wales Conference Center. Buses can park just past the Conference Center next to Physical Plant.  A short walk will bring guests to the Center.
• 9:15 AM – Tour of Sweet Briar Agriculture & Sustainability Program - Location: Sweet Briar Farms Greenhouse 
  • Meet Dr. Lisa Powell, Professor of Environmental Science & Agriculture
    Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College
    Chief Sustainability Officer
    • Greenhouses: Explore our year-round produce and hydroponics.
    • Apiary: Learn the importance of bees in sustainable agriculture.
    • Vineyards: Walk through our working vineyard and learn about grape cultivation and harvest.
• 11:00 AM – Farm-to-Table Culinary Experience - Location:Sweet Briar Culinary Kitchen
  • Hands-on workshop with Sweet Briar’s Executive Chef
  • Learn techniques using Sweet Briar-grown ingredients
  • Focus on sustainable cooking, local sourcing, and flavor pairing
  • Prepare and plate your own dish alongside our culinary team
• 12:00 PM – Lunch & Tasting in Prothro Dining Hall 
  • Enjoy the meal you’ve helped create
  • Discuss the farm-to-table process and culinary career pathways
  • Sweet Briar Admissions Overview
• 1:00 PM – Q&A and Wrap-Up
  • Take-home packets with information on Sweet Briar academic programs and scholarships

This visit is designed to inspire future culinary professionals through hands-on experiences that blend agriculture, sustainability, and fine cuisine.

Registration closes September 30th, 2026 at 6:00 PM

For questions, please contact Dr. Jai Girard at Jai@vrlta.org.