After a 20-plus-year career in the oil and gas business in Houston, Paul Mendoza opted for a change of direction and attended culinary school. In fall 2004, Chef Paul Mendoza came to Galveston College as an adjunct instructor, and in spring 2005 he was hired as the director of the Culinary Arts program at the college.

 Soon after taking over the Culinary Arts program at GC, a large trend emerged in the culinary world: commercial food service operations were being blamed for the obesity problem in the United States, as they tried to meet the rapid growth and demand for quick food.

Restaurant patrons began to demand more nutritious offerings due to the diet linked to many of the health challenges associated with obesity.

To answer the call, Mendoza, who earned a Master of Science degree in Nutrition in 2018, has emphasized healthy cuisine at GC and sought to collaborate with nearby four-year universities to provide students with a clear pathway into nutrition, dietetics, or culinary medicine.

“Galveston College's Culinary Arts program offers students the chance to discover their passion, hone their skills and prepare them to work in the fast-paced, challenging and exciting food service industry,” said Mendoza. “My journey in culinary arts has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am thrilled to help students achieve rewarding careers."

Registration for the fall 2024 semester at GC is currently underway. Fall classes begin Aug. 26.

For more information about the Culinary Arts program at GC, call 409-944-1304, email pmendoza@gc.edu or visit https://gc.edu/academic-career-programs/public-services-business-industry/culinary-arts.php.

 

ABOUT GALVESTON COLLEGE

Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs.