Chesapeake Culinary Center in Denton, Maryland wins IFWTWA's 2019 Hospitality Scholarship Award. As part of Caroline Culinary Arts, this organization provides high school students and community members an introduction to the foodservice and hospitality industry in preparation for future culinary careers. 

Jacqui Gibson wins the 2019 Excellence in Journalism Award for her article “The Kings of Creole.” Jacqui’s background includes a 20-year writing career that spans newspaper reporting, magazine feature writing and general communications. 

New Zealand writer Jacqui Gibson scanning New Zealand’s Cook Strait for humpback whales from the Bluebridge Ferry bridge. On assignment, November 2019 © Jacqui Gibson

Every year, IFWTWA members enter their best work for the Excellence in Journalism Award competition. Many entries prove our IFWTWA members have what it takes to excel in the food, wine and travel writing fields but only one entry rises to the top.

Please join us in congratulating Kristin Henning, winner of the 2018 Excellence in Journalism Award for her story "Finding Your Rhythm on the Camino de Santiago" published at Travel Past 50. "Finding Your Rhythm" virtually puts the reader on the road with Kristin. The story is not only rich in its descriptions of the experience but also explores the question of what might motivate one to take on the popular pilgrimage. The story goes beyond mere place to plumb the depths of what makes walking the Camino a transformative experience. Kristin’s award includes a $500 cash prize, an award certificate, and promotion via IFWTWA news, social media and website.