Industry group establishes scholarship for future confectioners

The Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia, which for years has provided a learning experience for Pennsylvania College of Technology baking & pastry arts students during its Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show, recently established an annual scholarship for students in the college’s baking and culinary majors.

“The Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia's mission is to share and educate. There is no better way to uphold this tradition than by helping to shape our future,” said Kandy Hughes, president of the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia. “I am so proud to be a part of the Philly Candy Show scholarship program, and I look forward to working with the next generation of confectioners from Penn College.”

The Philadelphia Candy Show Scholarship will award $1,000 annually. Recipients must have participated in at least one Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show and be pursuing an associate degree in baking & pastry arts, a certificate in professional baking, an associate degree in culinary arts technology, or a bachelor’s degree in applied management.

Chef Charles R. Niedermyer, instructor of baking and pastry arts/culinary arts, regularly presents education sessions at the association’s trade shows and was recently honored with its “Candy Hook Award” for his service. In addition, Penn College students meet and learn alongside industry professionals as they volunteer their time to help with seminars and other logistics at the shows.

“This long-standing relationship continues to be mutually beneficial in providing educational opportunities for our students to not only learn from but also teach candy and confectionary professionals,” said Brian D. Walton, assistant dean of business and hospitality. “The industry exposure, professional networking, and ability to use and interact with new technologies and equipment does not even begin to describe the amazing benefits our students get from such a partnership.”

“Kandy and others at the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia have long supported the academic experience of our baking & pastry arts and culinary arts students in and outside the classroom,” said Ana Gonzalez-White, college relations officer at Penn College. “By establishing the Philadelphia Candy Show Scholarship, they are taking the next step to empower our students so they can focus on their passion. I am truly grateful for their generosity.”

To learn more about Penn College’s baking and culinary majors, call 570-327-4505.

For more about the college, a national leader in applied technology education, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.