undergraduate representative
Donald G. Schoffstall '02
Instructor, Foodservice-related Academics
Pennsylvania Culinary Institute
Pittsburgh, Pa.
BS Culinary Arts Nutrition
AS Culinary Arts
Upon deciding on a professional career, Chef Donald Schoffstall journeyed from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Providence, Rhode Island determined to experience everything he could at Johnson & Wales University. Don graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Nutrition; graduating Magna Cum Laude, both times, being awarded membership into the Silver Key and Golden Quill Honor Societies. In addition to his course work, he volunteered his time in resume writing workshops and the Special Functions Club, accounting for over 500 hours of service. In June 2001, he was awarded and honored with participation in a Gastronomic Italian Tour sponsored by Banfi Vintners.
Following Johnson & Wales, Chef Don plunged himself into the world of food service. He steadily advanced through the ranks by obtaining positions in management at various establishments and in a little over two years obtained the position of General Manager at a major restaurant chain. Chef Don is a member of the American Culinary Federation, where he holds a Certified Sous Chef designation and of the International Food Service Executives Association.
Deciding to return to school, he has recently earned a Masters Degree in Instructional Leadership from Robert Morris University, which has enabled him to embark on a different aspect of his career. Chef Don will begin his teaching career at the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute during the summer of 2007, as an Instructor in Foodservice-related Academics. Don has always been driven by the power of education and fully intends to continue his education by earning a Ph.D. so that he may emulsify his hard earned talents in the kitchen with his desire to teach today’s most promising students to be tomorrow’s world class Chefs.
The passion for life-long education and learning, as well as, contributing to the future of the hospitality and foodservice industry is the drive that brings him to the Johnson & Wales University Alumni Council as the Undergraduate Representative for the College of Culinary Arts. To be able to give a little of yourself and contribute to future generations is the greatest thing anyone can do in their lives.