Exploring Culinary Opportunities: A Day With Crescent Valley High School's ProStart Program

Paul Paz, Heidi Lewis, Courtney Smith, and Emily Sass

​On Monday May 12, 2025, a group of industry members took a journey to Crescent Valley High School in Corvallis for an engaging visit to the ProStart Advanced Culinary Program class. Accompanied by Courtney Smith, ProStart Manager for the Oregon Hospitality Foundation, Paul Paz, owner of WaitersWorld, and Heidi Lewis, the innovative Creative Operations Director for American Dream Pizza. The mission was clear: to inspire the next generation of hospitality talent.

Upon arrival at Crescent Valley High, a warm welcome from Chef-Instructor Emily Sass set the tone for the day. Her dedication to nurturing young chefs and fostering a love for the culinary arts is evident in every corner of the classroom. As the group settled in, excitement filled the air as students prepared to learn about the vast opportunities available in Oregon's hospitality industries.

The discussion centered around the diverse career paths that await these students within the realms of restaurants, lodging, travel, tourism, and events. With Oregon being a culinary hotspot, the students were eager to hear about the potential for growth and innovation in these fields. From farm-to-table dining experiences, being creative behind a desk designing menus and more, all the way to the bustling tourism scene, the possibilities are endless for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals.

Adding to the wealth of knowledge shared during the visit was Paul Paz with WaitersWorld, an inspiring consultant who successfully turned waiting tables into a thriving career. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a "game face" and how it is possible to have a sustainable and successful life in the hospitality industry. His insights resonated deeply with the students, highlighting that every role within the industry, no matter how humble, can lead to significant opportunities and career advancement.

Courtney, Heidi, and Paul shared invaluable insights from their respective careers, emphasizing the importance of creativity, adaptability, and hard work in the culinary world. They spoke about their own journeys, highlighting how passion and dedication can lead to fulfilling careers in hospitality. The students listened intently, asking thoughtful questions and expressing their own aspirations.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the visit was witnessing the students’ enthusiasm for learning. Their eagerness to engage and explore different career options was palpable. Some even approached Courtney saying they were already coming up with ideas for the 2026 Oregon ProStart Championships! It was clear that Chef Sass has not only equipped them with culinary skills but has also instilled a strong sense of professionalism and ambition.

A special thank you goes to Heidi and American Dream Pizza for generously donating pizzas for the students to taste and experience. This delicious addition not only delighted the students but also provided a practical connection to the culinary discussions taking place.

As the session wrapped up, it was heartening to see the students energized and inspired. They left with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to explore the hospitality industry and all its offerings. The visit to Crescent Valley High School was not just about sharing knowledge but also about igniting passion and opening doors to new possibilities.

In conclusion, the day in Corvallis left a feeling of hope and inspiration for the future of Oregon's hospitality industry. With dedicated educators like Chef Emily Sass, inspiring figures like Paul Paz, and enthusiastic students ready to take on the hospitality world, the future is bright. The opportunity to contribute to their journey was a rewarding experience, and there is great anticipation for where their passions will lead them in the years to come. | Courtney Smith

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To learn more about the ProStart program, visit the Oregon Hospitality Foundation's website or contact Courtney Smith, ProStart Manager.