St. Philip’s College Students Bring Texas Flavors to Paris in International Culinary Exchange

St. Philip’s College students traveled to Paris, France, Sept. 28 through Oct. 8 to participate in an international culinary exchange with Lycée Hôtelier Guillaume Tirel, continuing a partnership that provides students with opportunities to experience French culinary education, culture and hospitality firsthand.

The delegation included St. Philip’s College students, President Dr. Adena Williams Loston and Dean Edith Orozco. The visit featured a special meal prepared by St. Philip’s students to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary and brought together students, educators and culinary professionals from the United States and France.

Lycée Hôtelier Guillaume Tirel conceived the idea of celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary through a special meal prepared by St. Philip’s students for distinguished guests in Paris.

The students' work received an enthusiastic response. “Paris was a phenomenal opportunity for our students. First off, it was great that the Lycée Hôtelier Guillaume Tirel conceived the idea of celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary through our students preparing a special meal that we could offer to dignitaries in Paris,” Loston said. “The most exciting thing was that we had an opportunity to serve people from the U.S. Embassy in Paris, people from UNESCO, dignitaries, headmasters from other culinary schools and the equivalent of school inspectors who examine the curriculum of different schools. They were all present.

“When our students entered the room, they received a standing ovation.” Loston said one guest’s reaction to the meal particularly stood out to her. “A gentleman at the embassy was taking his bread and wiping his plate to capture the last essence of the food on his plate. I’ve never seen that before at a high-level dinner,” Loston said. “I saw several empty plates—there was nothing left on the plate. When I saw him take his bread and wipe the plate, that was significant.”

The meal reflected the collaborative nature of the partnership. Students considered their skill levels, available ingredients, kitchen facilities and feedback from their French partners when developing the menu. The result brought together Texas flavors and French culinary foundations. By combining Texas traditions with classical French techniques, students experienced firsthand how culinary traditions can intersect and inspire new ideas.

The international experience extended beyond preparing and serving a meal. Through the partnership, St. Philip’s students learned alongside French culinary faculty and students, explored classical French techniques and ingredients, and experienced different approaches to cooking, service and hospitality. The exchange also allowed St. Philip’s students to present their own cuisine to French students, creating an exchange of knowledge that moved in both directions.

Students adapted to a new environment, worked with people they had never met and navigated language and cultural differences. The experience provided a broader view of the culinary and hospitality industry while building confidence, independence and professional skills.

Upon completion of the program, participating students receive diplomas recognizing their international experience and accomplishment. The St. Philip’s College and Lycée Hôtelier Guillaume Tirel partnership has continued to create opportunities for students on both sides of the Atlantic.

The continued partnership reflects St. Philip’s College’s commitment to providing students with experiences that connect classroom learning to the world beyond campus. “International partnerships create opportunities that none of us could create alone,” Loston said. “They allow our students to see the world, learn from others and share what they know. They remind us that education is not confined by geography.”

From San Antonio to Paris, the latest exchange demonstrates the power of education to connect people, cultures and traditions while giving St. Philip’s students an opportunity to carry a piece of Texas with them wherever their education takes them.