With the school year already underway, what better way to bring the Wilkes community together than the 30th annual Taste of Wilkes?
The Taste of Wilkes will take place in the ballroom of the Henry Student Center on Nov. 1 between 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. At the event, attendees will be able to try appetizers, entrees and desserts made by Wilkes students, staff and faculty.
Taste of Wilkes is all about the community and an opportunity for the Wilkes community to come together in a different way than usual. It is a chance for those attending to sit, enjoy food and maybe even learn new recipes.
Last year, a Taste of Wilkes cookbook included everyone’s recipes. This seems to be making an appearance again, said Jeanne Rabeel, who coordinates the event.
“[Taste of Wilkes] has always been an event that highlights the strength and value of Wilkes,” said Rabeel, who is also a University College advising coordinator.
Rabeel also stated that the Taste of Wilkes is “focusing on it being a change for the community to come back together.” This is important because last year, they had to change how things ran and make the food to-go available, due to COVID-19 guidelines.
For those who do not know much about the event, there will be a variety of food to choose from, which are all homemade. In addition, for those who participate in the basket raffle, the baskets can have different items such as gift certificates from local businesses and restaurants, wellness/spa gift cards and Wilkes swag, which has been used in the past.
All of the proceeds made will go to the Wilkes United Way campaign. The campaign supports the school districts and families in the Wyoming Valley area. Wilkes United Way also funds the Shine Program, a part of the Wilkes campus.
The lucky chef that wins rst place will receive a prize and have their name and winning dish memorialized on the Taste of Wilkes plaque. Second and third-place winners will receive prizes as well. Some fan favorites and winners include broccoli bagna càuda, meatballs and peanut butter cup cupcakes.
Last year’s first place winner was Janet Cussatt.
Anyone interested in being a chef can sign up by Oct. 7. Those interested in sending basket and raffle items, all items are due to Erica Acosta by the same date.