Ten Graduate from Inaugural Culinary Arts Program

Commissioner: Gregory C. Dozier

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Receiving certification in three areas

FORSYTH, Ga. – On December 15, 10 residents graduated from the inaugural Culinary Arts Program at Lee Arrendale Transitional Center (TC) located in Alto, GA. The residents graduated with three certificates in Basic Culinary Skills, Career Readiness and ServSafe Manager’s Level from North Georgia Technical College. This program is a provided through a partnership with Goodwill of North Georgia, North Georgia Technical College and Georgia Mountains WorkSource. 

 “We are fortunate to have partners who are willing to work together to bring these types of programs to our offender population,” said Commissioner Dozier. “We commend the graduates for all their hard work, and thank our dedicated staff for supporting them in their efforts.”

The residents enrolled in the 12-week program to learn skills consisting of, types of cooking, food safety and employability skills. Students worked five days a week and attend class two days each week.   

“For 12 weeks, we did not have a day off, but now I have more confidence than I have ever had before,” said student Mary Jo House. “I did not know anything about cooking when I started this program, but now I know that I can accomplish my goal of running my own food truck once I get home.” 

Out of the ten graduates, eight are currently working in the culinary field.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.