As Thanksgiving Day approaches, Keiser University’s Tallahassee Campus has partnered with Second Harvest and 211 Big Bend to provide families with warm and flavorful meals.
Inspired by Second Harvest’s partnership with 211 Big Bend to provide home deliveries to those facing natural disasters, the collaboration is known as the Thankful Deliveries Project.
Keiser University’s participation will provide additional manpower and resources to expand outreach. “This partnership was born from a shared call to action to support families across our region during the holiday season. It represents the very heart of our commitment to service, community, and student-centered learning,” said Dr. Shyam Mistry, Keiser University’s Tallahassee Campus Dean of Academic Affairs.
As part of the alliance, Second Harvest will provide Keiser University’s Center for Culinary Arts with the ingredients needed to prepare Thanksgiving meals for 1,000 tri-county area families. The tasty dishes, created by Keiser University Culinary Arts program students and instructors, will include signature smoked turkey, classic herb stuffing, green bean casserole with crispy onions, and creamy mashed potatoes. With volunteer assembling and bagging assistance from Second Harvest and Independence Living residents, the meals are scheduled to be delivered by Big Bend 211 and Grub Hub on Wednesday, November 26th.
“This initiative is not only great for the community, but also an experiential learning opportunity for our students. It allows them to apply their skills in a real-world, high-impact project that embodies Keiser University’s mission of service and career-focused education. The collaboration is the first of its kind in our region, and we fully expect it to become a model for future community-driven outreach programs,” said Mistry.
How to Support
To learn more and to volunteer, please visit Second Harvest of the Big Bend’s website at fightinghunger.org. Financial donations can also be made through the food bank’s website. To view the WCTV segment highlighting the effort, please visit here.
About Keiser University
Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts presents a comprehensive curriculum that includes laboratory sessions, academic preparation, and hands-on experience. Students acquire professional knowledge of food, its preparation and handling, and cooking from basic to advanced. The curriculum includes an externship to prepare students for entry-level positions in the foodservice industry.
Transform Your Future at Keiser University
Since 1977, Keiser University has been empowering students like you to achieve their career dreams. As one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit institutions, founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser, we’re committed to your success with:
- Over 100 degree programs from associate to doctoral level
- Recognition as the No. 1 university in the U.S. for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Reports (2023)
- Proud membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
- A legacy of excellence in education spanning more than 45 years
Don’t wait to start building your future. Contact Keiser University today and take the first step toward your dream career. Call Toll-Free: 888-KEISER-9 or Contact a Keiser Campus near you. Schedule your campus tour and learn more about our flexible programs, financial aid options, and career services support.
KU Chef Debora Miller, Second Harvest of the Big Bend CEO Monique Renee Ellsworth, WCTV Anchor and Reporter Julie Montanaro, KU Dean of Academic Affairs Shyam Mistry
KU Culinary Arts student Amya Black, KU Chef Debora Miller, and WCTV Anchor and Reporter Julie Montanaro
The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.
