If the quickest way to someone’s heart is through his or her stomach, Fortis Academy students had the HCDE Board of Trustees and Executive Leadership Team feeling the love ahead of the Nov. 19 board meeting. Culinary students prepared and served a three-course Thanksgiving meal to celebrate the holiday season and show off their skills.

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Led by Chef Daisy Alvarez, the school’s three sous-chefs started with a pomegranate harvest salad with a brown sugar balsamic vinaigrette, fresh fruit and crunchy pecans. HCDE leadership raved about the Cajun-roasted turkey breast served with an array of traditional sides, including four-cheese macaroni and cheese, mashed sweet potatoes and classic stuffing. Students rounded out the feast with a salted caramel apple pie cheesecake. 

In its fifth year, the Thanksgiving tradition provides an opportunity for Fortis Academy students to meet and mingle with Department leaders while showcasing their cooking, time management, teamwork and communication skills, as well as their creativity through each dish they prepare.