Chef Kerish Robles Tapped by UVI Cell to Head New Culinary Arts Program

The University of the Virgin Islands, Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning (UVI CELL) has hired local chef and educator, Kerish Robles as program manager for UVI CELL’s new Culinary Arts Program, UVI has announced.

The Culinary Arts Program is currently in the development phase and will be housed at the former West Bay Supermarket location on St. Thomas. The program addresses the restaurant industry labor shortages and the need for formal training in the Culinary Industry. The program will offer certification courses through the American Culinary Federation, industry short courses, and community cooking classes. It is expected to launch in the Spring of 2022.

“I’m excited for our community and our future students as Chef Kerish is the ideal person for this role,” stated UVI CELL Director, Dr. Suzanne Darrow-Magras. “She is a culinary expert and a dedicated teacher with an entrepreneurial spirit. She is committed to furthering the skills of residents and understands the importance of career and technical education in the territory,” continued Dr. Magras.

According to the release, Chef Kerish as she is affectionately known brings over 17 years of experience as an Innovative Professional Certified Chef. She was born and raised on St. Thomas then graduated from the International Culinary Institute at the Art Institute of Atlanta with a degree in Culinary Management. Notably, she was one of two to secure the coveted spot as Junior Chef, making them the first Junior Chefs on the U.S. Virgin Culinary Team. This opportunity paved the way in most recent years for youth to compete as junior chefs on the team.