Culinary student senior Brian Leon was awarded a $15,000 scholarship to Stratford University to use toward his tuition in the fall, as well as a $1,000 scholarship from the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association for books, uniforms, and other materials in the final competition for the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP).

Leon competed in the preliminary C-CAP competition in January, advancing to the final competition on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at Stratford University. The final competition was judged based on the preparation of several dishes, knife skills and cooking techniques, speed, taste, and overall appearance. Students also completed in two rounds of interviews, were asked to memorize recipes, maintain the cleanliness of their stations, and remain professional at all times.

The C-CAP program itself is a national nonprofit organization devoted to transforming the lives of at risk students through culinary arts, preparing them for college and careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Since 1990, C-CAP has awarded students millions of dollars in scholarships, provided job training and internships, college and lifetime career support, teacher training, and products and equipment donations to classrooms.