The University of West London (UWL) has awarded Lisa Jenkins, CEO of The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), an Honorary Doctor of Letters in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the hospitality and culinary arts sectors. The award was awarded on Wednesday 22 July during the University’s graduation ceremonies at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
As CEO of RACA, the UK’s leading professional membership association of head chefs, head pastry chefs, restaurant managers and industry associates, Lisa plays a pivotal role in developing the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Nurturing talent
Under her leadership, the Academy delivers a range of initiatives designed to educate, inspire, and nurture talent including the RACA apprenticeship programme, the Annual Awards of Excellence, the Adopt a School charity and the four yearly Master of Culinary Arts competition.
RACA supports young people, colleges, and educational institutions by providing programmes through its extensive network of academician members and industry contacts while raising the standards and awareness of food, food provenance and sustainability, cooking and service.
Dedicated to the industry
Before becoming CEO of RACA in 2023, Lisa was the managing editor of The Caterer magazine. As a journalist, she wrote interviews with industry figures as well as news and features about the industry, food, drink and equipment. She also managed high-profile events including The Acorn Awards, The People Summit, Best Places to Work in Hospitality and the Kitchen Porter of the Year competition.
Lisa’s parents were publicans and she worked as a kitchen porter from the age of fourteen and progressed to working front of house and behind the bar. She recognises the dedication it takes to be part of the industry she loves.
Supporting future professionals
Introducing Lisa to the graduands and guests, Dr James Edmunds, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism said:
“Through the Academy and her wider network, Lisa has helped to create meaningful opportunities for students within the College, from engagement with national competitions and awards, to access to leading figures across the sector, and exposing the standards expected at the highest levels of the profession.
What stands out in Lisa’s career in hospitality is the consistency of her focus. Whether in operations, media, or now sector leadership, she has remained committed to supporting people getting into and progressing through hospitality, particularly those at an early stage of their careers, and more specifically those whose contribution is often unrecognised.”
Accepting the honour, Lisa praised the University’s contribution to the sector:
“Having the University as our headline sponsor across both the Annual Awards of Excellence and The Master of Culinary Arts is one of the most valuable relationships we have.
“The University of West London plays a crucial role in the hospitality industry in this country, supporting thousands upon thousands of young people in their careers. It is a privilege to work with you Peter, and with Michael Coaker and the wider University team.”