The CulinArt team at St. Francis Preparatory School, in Fresh Meadows, N.Y. (Queens), recently hosted and sponsored the school’s annual President’s Dinner, which demonstrates appreciation for the school’s largest donors.
On April 25, St. Francis Prep hosted its annual President’s Dinner, welcoming more than 150 generous donors for an evening of gratitude, reflection, and forward-looking vision. The event brought together supporters to celebrate past achievements while highlighting future initiatives that will shape the school’s continued growth.
The transformation of the St. Francis Prep library into an elegant and inviting event space was nothing short of remarkable. This stunning conversion was thoughtfully executed by Director of Dining Services Nick Cadmus, director of dining services, Assistant Manager Juanita Serrano, and Operations Manager Dorothy Alexatos, creating a warm and memorable setting for the evening. Recently retired District Manager Ed Murray lent an advisory hand.
Guests enjoyed a refined dining experience featuring medallions of beef with chimichurri mushrooms, Mediterranean red snapper fillets, and chicken Francese. The menu was expertly prepared by the culinary team led by Sous Chef Mauricio Cumba, alongside three executive chefs from the CulinArt Catering Collection—Robert Loria (Cradle of Aviation), Richard Braveman (Woodbury Jewish Center), and JoAnn Mezey (Woodbury Jewish Center), whose attention to detail and execution elevated the evening.
The event would not have been possible without the dedication of more than 28 staff members from St. Francis Prep, the United Nations, Archbishop Molloy High School, St. Francis College, and temporary help from 021NYCREW. Their collaboration and professionalism ensured a seamless and successful evening.
Shout-outs from Attendees
“Excellent! That is the word I have for the presentation, service, and quality of the production exhibited during the President’s Dinner. In my opinion, it not only rivals but actually surpasses most catering establishments in the industry. I am very happy to see that the in-house CulinArt Group is providing Prep students such exposure.”
“Thank you for such a great job and attention to detail. Your food was delicious and the service was outstanding. I got many compliments on the food from attendees. I appreciate your patience with me and your commitment to Prep.”
—Roy Wheeler, director of development, St. Francis Prep
“What a great evening. The CulinArt crew did an amazing job. So glad you are part of the team. Thanks again.”
—Br. Leonard Conway, OSF, school president