Newest Top Chef
The American Culinary Federation Michigan Chefs de Cuisine has named OCC Chef Greg Stroker as the 2023 Educator Pastry Chef of the Year. The dedicated Baking and Pastry instructor shares his craft at Oakland Community College’s Culinary Studies Institute.
The annual award pays tribute to an active culinary educator whose knowledge, skills and expertise have enhanced the image of the professional chef, and who, by example, has given leadership, guidance and direction to students seeking a career in the culinary profession.
Chef Stroker generally shies away from acknowledgements of professional accomplishments for what he believes are “core job responsibilities.” But with a pastry chef’s trademark attention to detail, Stroker notes this high honor recognizes his love of teaching other student chefs.
“I really enjoy teaching the science and art of baking and pastries to students interested in learning. I am proud of any positive reflection this award brings to OCC’s culinary program," he shared.
According to Academic Dean Cindy Carbone it is a true pleasure to work with such talented individuals like Chef Stroker. He is dedicated to his craft—in this case baking and pastry—to working with OCC students to be the best they can be.
“It is a testament to the quality of our Culinary program to have Chef Greg as one of our chefs,” she said. “He inspires and motivates our students while at the same time instilling in them the true artistry of culinary skill.”
“Chef Greg is a teacher at heart. His passion is demonstrated in his commitment to students. He is very deserving of this award. We are proud, honored and fortunate to have him at our renowned Culinary Arts Institute.”
The Rise of a Great Baking and Pastry Chef
Chef Stroker began his career earning a culinary arts degree at Schoolcraft College after receiving a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Michigan State University. He furthered his education by earning a master’s in business administration with a focus on hospitality management from South University.
Stroker worked as a pastry chef in several fine dining restaurants in Michigan including Tribute, Farmington Hills; Steve & Rocky’s, Novi; Latitude, Bay Harbor; and Forte, Birmingham. He has received recognition in several publications including Wine Spectator and Hour Magazine, received awards in American Culinary Federation (ACF) chocolate competitions and participated in promotional segments on local television. Prior to teaching at OCC, Chef Stroker was a culinary instructor at Washtenaw Community College, The Art Institute of Michigan and Dorsey Schools Culinary Academy.
About The Michigan Chefs de Cuisine Association
The association was founded in 1970 by Master Chef Milos Cihelka, CMC, AAC, HGT, whose vision it was to create one of the most prestigious professional associations in the nation. The chapter consists of about 450 members.
About OCC
Oakland Community College offers nearly 100 degrees and certificates programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling with face-to-face and online options. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training with expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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