A Note from Tracie Thompson

"Most people strive to identify a mentor, icon or hero in realms of the world where they would like to see themselves one day. Familiar images of people that resemble their likeness inspires their vision for their future. It was important to me, as Cameron’s mother, to weave this mindset in to his fabric from a young age. Yes, he found icons and heroes that shared his creativity, his authenticity, and his zest to learn from books, people and experiences. But he wasn’t able to identify many black chefs that worked at the level he inspired to reach in the culinary world. Luckily that didn’t prevent him from striving for the top and working in two restaurants with Michelin stars in his short career. But we know it does stop people of color from exploring other career opportunities, interests or adventures because they don’t see their ‘likeness’.  

The Cameron Thompson Legacy  Scholarship at the Culinary Institute of America can fuel the dreams of so many that desire a career in the culinary industry. Be apart of a community that helps shift that mindset and encourages people of color that aspire to be chefs to see themselves in the finest kitchens across the globe." 

- Tracie Thompson