On Wednesday afternoon, Breithaupt High School’s culinary classroom buzzed with anticipation. Students arrived expecting an end-of-semester lunch, unaware that the afternoon would soon become something much bigger. What unfolded was a moment of recognition, encouragement, and possibility.
What began as a simple gathering became a powerful reminder that students’ hard work is seen, their talent matters, and there is a community ready to invest in their futures.
In partnership with the Detroit Public Schools Community District Foundation, Chick-fil-A surprised Breithaupt’s culinary students with a $50,000 investment in the school’s Culinary Arts program, affirming their dedication and the real-world pathways ahead.
“This moment reflects what’s possible when partners invest not just dollars, but time, presence, and belief in our students,” said Kerrie Mitchell Campbell-Mabins, President & CEO of the DPSCD Foundation. “Career and Technical Education opens doors, and investments like this ensure our students are prepared to walk through them.”
Preparing Students for What Comes Next
Breithaupt’s Culinary Arts program equips students with far more than technical cooking skills. Through hands-on learning, students build leadership, discipline, teamwork, and professionalism. These are skills that prepare them for success in culinary careers and beyond.
This investment will strengthen the program’s ability to provide industry-aligned experiences and exposure, ensuring students graduate with confidence and practical, real-world skills.
When Partnerships Are Personal
A defining part of the day was the presence of seven Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators, who showed up not just to support the program, but to engage directly with students and share their own journeys.
Among them were three proud DPSCD alumni, including two Cass Technical High School graduates, whose shared roots helped spark this opportunity:
- Vikki Brown, Chick-fil-A Livonia (Cass Technical High School alum)
- Marcel Smith, Chick-fil-A Operator Select (DPSCD alum)
- Greg Russell, Chick-fil-A Auburn Hills (DPSCD alum)
They were joined by:
- Brad Lunsford, Chick-fil-A Allen Park
- Matthew Leverett, Chick-fil-A Southfield
- Kacey Engstrom, Chick-fil-A Troy Somerset
- Phil Whitsel, Chick-fil-A Northville
Through conversations rooted in shared experience and pride in Detroit schools, Chick-fil-A operators and DPSCD leaders recognized a meaningful opportunity to invest in students. With support from the DPSCD Foundation, that connection became a partnership that brought industry, education, and community together around student success.
During the visit, operators spoke candidly with students about leadership, perseverance, and the many pathways within the culinary and hospitality industries. Their presence reinforced a simple but powerful message: success is possible, and opportunity often begins with people who believe in you.
“Our students are full of talent and potential, and they deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated,” said Latrice McClendon, Vice Chair of the DPSCD Board of Education and a Cass Technical High School alum. “This investment sends a powerful message to Breithaupt’s culinary students that their hard work is valued and that their futures are worth investing in.”
Latrice’s words and leadership reflected the importance of creating pathways that allow today’s students to one day return as mentors, leaders, and partners themselves.
Adding to the celebration, Chick-fil-A’s Santa Cow made a special appearance, bringing joy, laughter, and a festive spark to the afternoon.
A Commitment Rooted in Belief
The surprise announcement was shared by Chloe Wade, External Affairs for Chick-fil-A, who traveled to Detroit to be part of the moment and reinforce the company’s commitment to workforce development and student opportunity.
The $50,000 investment represents more than a single gift. It reflects a shared commitment to students and to programs that connect education to real-world success.
Gratitude for Those Who Make This Work Possible
The DPSCD Foundation extends its sincere thanks to:
- The Chick-fil-A Owner-Operators who showed up, shared their stories, and invested in students
- Chloe Wade and the Chick-fil-A team for their partnership and presence
- Latrice McClendon for her leadership, advocacy, and deep connection to DPSCD
- The dedicated Breithaupt High School administrators, educators, and staff who support students every day
We are also deeply grateful to all of our supporters, partners, and district leadership who help make this work possible every day.
At the DPSCD Foundation, we are proud to steward partnerships that strengthen programs, expand opportunity, and remind students that their futures are worth investing in.
