A total of four students at Colorado Mesa University and CMU Tech in Grand Junction received scholarships for the upcoming academic year through a program promoting the development of professionals in the hospitality and culinary industries.

The Visit Denver Foundation awarded a total of $14,000 in scholarships to the four students. The recipients were:

Gloria Brown, a sophomore pursuing an associate’s degree in culinary arts, awarded $3,000.

Orionna Byrd, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and human resources, awarded $3,000.

Olivia Linnebur, a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and culinary arts, awarded $5,000.

Paxton Walker, a freshman pursuing a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, awarded $3,000.

“Through the generosity of the hospitality community, the Visit Denver Foundation is honored to support Colorado Mesa University students who are pursuing careers in the hospitality and tourism industry,” said Nicole Marsh, chairwoman of the Visit Denver Foundation. “It’s a great accomplishment for these scholarship recipients and is a testament to the quality of the programs they’re enrolled in. Our hope is that these scholarships help CMU students pursue their dreams while supporting workforce efforts in our industry.”

The CMU Tech culinary program offers state-of-the-art kitchen facilities and instruction from experienced culinary professionals. Students receive training in both classic and contemporary cooking techniques. Students also have an opportunity to practice their skills at Hotel Maverick, a boutique hotel on the CMU campus that includes the Devil’s Kitchen restaurant and bar.

The CMU hospitality management degree program offers a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. At Hotel Maverick, students manage daily operations and deliver guest services.

“I am proud of Olivia and Gloria. They both exemplify the values of CMU and are very deserving of the scholarships that have been awarded,” said Wayne Smith, associate technical professor of culinary arts at CMU Tech. “Our department is appreciative of the Visit Denver Foundation and their recognition of CMU hospitality and CMU Tech culinary students. Their willingness to look statewide to identify the future leaders of our industry demonstrates the importance of food service, hospitality and tourism to the entire state of Colorado.”