Six graduates from Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) received the 2026 Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Culinary Excellence on July 14.
The awards, presented during a ceremony at Government House in Halifax, recognize outstanding achievement in culinary education and the next generation of leaders in Nova Scotia's food and hospitality sector.
"Nova Scotia's culinary community is enriched by talented individuals whose creativity, dedication and passion help showcase the very best of our province," said Lt.-Gov. Mike Savage. "These graduates have demonstrated exceptional skill and commitment throughout their studies, and I am pleased to recognize their accomplishments as they begin what I am sure will be rewarding and successful careers."
The 2026 recipients are:
- Abigail Coleman, culinary management, Akerley campus, Dartmouth
- Miriam Csanyi, baking and pastry Arts, Akerley campus
- Min Gong, culinary management, Akerley campus
- Xiwen Hu, culinary management, Sydney Waterfront campus
- Seth Little, culinary management, Akerley campus
- Bethany MacNeil, baking and pastry arts, Kingstec campus, Kentville.
Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, commitment to the culinary profession and engagement within their communities.
Quotes:
"We are incredibly proud of our culinary students for the talent, dedication and hard work they bring to the field. The Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Culinary Excellence recognizes their achievements and encourages them as they move forward in their careers. We are grateful for the Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia's continued support in celebrating and honouring the outstanding accomplishments of our culinary students."
Anna Burke, acting President, Nova Scotia Community College
"When I received the notification that I was a finalist for the award, I had to reread it multiple times to make sure I was reading it right. After the shock had worn off, I felt a mixture of honour and excitement."
Bethany MacNeil, baking and pastry arts student, Kingstec campus
Quick Facts:
- the Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Culinary Excellence was established by former lieutenant-governor Arthur J. LeBlanc in 2019
- the award program is administered through a partnership between NSCC and the Office of the Lieutenant-Governor
- NSCC offers culinary programs specializing in baking and pastry arts, culinary management and culinary skills
Additional Resources:
A full list of lieutenant-governor's awards is at: https://lt.gov.ns.ca/honours-awards/awards#174
