Pictured: A one-year journey of growth, discipline and achievement culminated in a meaningful celebration at Young Chefs Academy of Sarasota. Photo by Barbie Heit.

On Tuesday, April 7, the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Culinary Scholars, in partnership with Girls Inc. of Sarasota County and Young Chefs Academy of Sarasota, celebrated the completion of a yearlong program at Young Chefs Academy. The program brought together a group of girls, ages 9–14, who met weekly to build skills, discipline and confidence while preparing two recipes each session.

The celebration, held on National Coffee Cake Day, honored the girls’ growth and independence in the kitchen. Fittingly, they joined together to bake coffee cake—a tribute to Virginia B. Toulmin. More than a nod to tradition, the moment reflected her legacy: using something simple and familiar to inspire connection, community and opportunity for the next generation. Toulmin, who learned to cook from her grandmother, held a lifelong love for coffee cake, her favorite dessert.

Bill Villafranco, Trustee of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation and a father of five girls himself, spoke of the program’s inception and his hopes for its legacy. He first envisioned a space where girls could gain lifelong skills while building confidence and focus. “The kitchen is an amazing tool. You learn skills you carry forever. It’s a place to use your imagination and concentrate without distractions—no social media, no comparisons, just the work in front of you,” he said. “When these girls are older and have their own children, they can reflect on being here and think of Virginia Toulmin, someone they never met, but they understand that she was a really beautiful woman, and her story will be carried on.”

The program’s participants graduated with chef’s jackets and commemorative pins. Ten-year-old Ryker, who earned her black jacket by scoring 80 or higher on bi-monthly tests, now says she may pursue a future as a chef.

The celebration concluded with a tasting, during which guests sampled the scholars’ creations, followed by a recognition ceremony honoring each participant’s commitment and achievements.

Pictured: A one-year journey of growth, discipline and achievement culminated in a meaningful celebration at Young Chefs Academy of Sarasota. Photo by Barbie Heit.

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