From Grandma’s Kitchen to CINY: Michael Hindley Named US Foods Scholar

When Michael Hindley first stepped into the kitchen as a little boy to cook alongside his grandmother, he never imagined that passion would carry him across the country from his home in Arizona all the way to New York and earn him one of the nation’s most prestigious culinary scholarships.

Michael is one of just 18 students nationwide selected as a 2025 US Foods Scholar. In addition to the recognition, Michael will receive a $20,000 scholarship and professional development opportunities to help him continue to grow as a chef.

While he may be far from Arizona and his family, the act of cooking is something that always takes him back to that feeling that only home can produce.

“One of my grandmas loves to cook Asian dishes, and I always loved to watch her do that,” he said. Growing up watching her cook was the initial spark that inspired him to pursue culinary training in high school.

In August 2024, Michael attended a C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program) bootcamp at Monroe, an experience that strengthened his connection to CINY and helped guide his decision to enroll.

Michael first heard about Monroe from a friend already studying at CINY, who told him about the C-CAP competition – earning him a partial scholarship. Now, just three weeks into his studies in New Rochelle, he is already reflecting on the transition.

“It’s definitely a big change,” he admitted. “But I do like it a lot. It’s very nice.”

Receiving the US Foods Scholars award was both a surprise and a validation.

“It’s just surprising to me, if I’m honest,” Michael said. “I put a lot of hard work into applying for this scholarship. But if you had told me two years ago that I would win this scholarship, I would have been very surprised.”

Looking ahead, Michael has a clear vision: he “definitely wants to be a chef,” serving private meals or Michelin star.

“I want to be on the higher end of a chef… probably French or Asian cuisine, because there’s just a lot of different ways you can take it,” he concluded.

“Michael is already showing the qualities we look for in a future leader of the culinary industry – passion, discipline, and creativity,” said Dr. Frank Costantino, Dean of the School of Hospitality Management and CINY. “His recognition as a US Foods Scholar is not only a testament to his talent, but also to the hard work he has put into his craft. We are proud to support him as he begins his journey here at CINY, and we look forward to seeing the mark he will make in fine dining and beyond.”

Launched in 2017, the US Foods Scholars program has awarded more than $2.4 million in scholarships to over 120 students across the country. In addition to financial support, the program provides mentorship and professional development opportunities to help students succeed in culinary and hospitality careers. The program is administered in partnership with Scholarship America and Careers through the Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP).