SOUL FOOD
BY ENEIDA DEL VALLE

Lisa Beatrice Jones became an award-winning chef long before her school days at CWE. “I was the chef for former New York Mayor David N. Dinkins,” she proudly says.

But despite all of her career achievements as a 20-year culinary veteran, Lisa has had a personal goal that she never quite accomplished. That is, until now— obtaining her college degree.

For Lisa, CWE was the perfect solution. “The standard of quality professors and its focus on the busy adult student is what made me come to CWE,” says Lisa, a Manhattan resident and transfer student from Queensborough Community College.

Currently is a consultant/program coordinator for Local 1180-CWA while a student at CWE, Lisa educates people on public health & wellness. According to Lisa, it’s been CWE’s evening and weekend class schedules that have helped facilitated achieving her personal goal possible. “I have had great discussions that have enlightened and changed my life,” says Lisa, who was recently named an Ann. S. Kheel scholar, which is affiliated with the Colin Powell Center for Policy Studies Department. “Professors have inspired me to do work and think deeper.”

Currently concentrating on public health and law at CWE, Lisa is hoping on making a smooth career transition from chef to public advocate. “I’ve enjoyed working in the culinary industry, however, I feel more prepared to accomplish my goals.”