"Students need to learn how to think critically, how to argue opposing ideas. It is important for them to learn how to think. You can always cook."

"I couldn't really relate to the fraternity or party scene, to the people out in the mall every day protesting one thing or another. I felt like there was no one I could relate to."

"One must know combinations, one must have a true knowledge of food to be in the moment."

"What I was reading was already part of my psyche, but finally someone else was saying it's okay to walk alone."

"A jazz musician can improvise based on his knowledge of music. He understands how things go together. For a chef, once you have that basis, that's when cuisine is truly exciting."

"All four elements were happening in equal measure - the cuisine, the wine, the service, and the overall ambience. It taught me that dining could happen at a spiritual level."

"Chefs, as a whole, say yes to any project, fundraiser, or tasting because they have such a generous spirit."