JWU Receives $100,000 Jacques Pépin Foundation Gift

Johnson & Wales University has received a $100,000 gift from the Jacques Pépin Foundation to establish two student-support funds. The funds include an endowed scholarship for College of Food Innovation & Technology students and a financial support fund for eligible undergraduates. Support from the financial fund will be available at JWU’s Providence and Charlotte Campuses. The gift is intended to address financial barriers that can affect student success and persistence.

Two New Student Funds

The endowed scholarship will support students enrolled in JWU’s College of Food Innovation & Technology, helping aspiring food and culinary professionals access the university’s industry-focused education. The financial support fund will provide assistance to students facing unexpected financial challenges that could jeopardize their ability to continue their education at JWU.

Mim Runey, Chancellor at Johnson & Wales University, said:

“Johnson & Wales University is deeply grateful to the Jacques Pépin Foundation for this meaningful investment in our students' education. This gift reflects a shared commitment to removing barriers to education and empowering students to achieve their academic and professional goals. The impact of these funds will be felt by students across our university community for years to come.”

Support Across Both Campuses

The financial support fund is not limited to College of Food Innovation & Technology students. Eligible undergraduate students across both campuses can receive support through the fund.

Rollie Wesen, Executive Director at the Jacques Pépin Foundation, said:

“As a faculty member for over 15 years at Johnson & Wales University, I've seen firsthand the transformative role culinary education can play in shaping a student's future. I've also seen how financial challenges, whether anticipated or unexpected, can stand in the way of a student completing their degree and reaching their full potential. The JPF is proud to support the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals through these two funds, helping ensure that talented, passionate students have the opportunity to pursue their education, and that financial hardships don't prevent them from achieving their goals.”

Building On A Longstanding Relationship

The gift builds on JWU’s relationship with chef, educator and author Jacques Pépin. Pépin received an honorary degree from Johnson & Wales University in 2010 and was honored at the College of Food Innovation & Technology 50th anniversary gala in 2023.