Chef Wilkinson “Ken” Sejour of Chef Creole, center, is joined by Miami Dade School Board Member Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, Booker T. Washingotn principal William Aristide and several students he rewarded with a complimentary meal and gift cards.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXEXPLOSIONBYJOJO

Staff Report

MIAMI – Chef Wilkinson “Ken” Sejour – successful restaurateur and Chef Creole owner – launched the first of several school partnerships at Booker T. Washington (BTW) High School last week.

On Nov. 16, Sejour recognized 150 students who achieved academic excellence by providing them each with $10 gift cards, redeemable at any of his restaurants, during a special ceremony.

Sejour said he is always excited to give back to the community that helped him build a successful business and make his passion his profession.

He shared inspiring words with the students in a packed auditorium about the importance of education, giving back and keeping your word.

Also in attendance were Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, Miami Dade County Public Schools District 2 School Board Member, and Ismael Sierra, community liaison from the office of City of Miami District 5 Commissioner Keon Hardemon.

The visit comes as a fulfillment of Sejour’s promise during a previous visit that he would give students a shrimp dinner or a meal at his restaurant if they did well on their tests.

He did both. In addition to the gift cards, Chef Creole also sponsored a catered lunch for all 150 students and 20 staff members.

William Aristide, principal at BTW, said he was elated so many students did well and Chef Sejour returned to show the students appreciation.

Bendross-Mindingall agreed with Aristide.

“He is so generous. He is a man of his word. Many people say they are going to do something and they don’t do it, but he did. The food was delicious. It was wonderful,” Bendross-Mindigall said.

Sejour said he is excited to partner with local schools in close proximity to his six restaurants, therefore Miami Edison, Norland and North Miami High Schools will also be included in his “Gift of Education” initiative.

“We are planning some amazing events and opportunities for students to inspire them to be greater than their circumstances and environment,” Sejour said.