Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation (HMEF) is thrilled to recognize Carlyn Shanley as the 2026 ProStart Educator of Excellence for her outstanding contributions to the next generation of culinary professionals through her work at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis.

About Carlyn: 

Carlyn has created transformative opportunities for her students, notably the "Cafeteria Takeover Project" where students designed menus that were integrated into the rotation for all of Minneapolis Public Schools. Beyond the classroom, she coordinates community meals and partnerships with local soup kitchens, allowing students to apply their ProStart skills in service to others.

Carlyn's excellence is also defined by her commitment to inclusivity. She has utilized grants to purchase accessible equipment for neurodivergent students and designs visual recipes for ESL learners. Whether helping a student obtain a cottage food license or organizing "Empty Bowls" fundraisers, Carlyn serves as a beacon of light in the hospitality community.

Join the Celebration: We invite you to honor Carlyn at the 2026 Scholarship Breakfast on May 5 at The Beach Club in Minneapolis.