Today, we are thrilled to announce the winners of two prestigious awards that honor those who have made exceptional contributions to baking education and community outreach: the Home Baking Association Educator Award and the Bake to Give: Maddie Kruse Youth Award.
We received an overwhelming number of applications from dedicated educators and community servants who are passionate about sharing the art of baking. Each application was a testament to their commitment to fostering baking skills and spreading the love of homemade treats. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who took the time to submit their entries.
2024 Home Baking Association Educator Award: After careful consideration, the Home Baking Association is delighted to announce the winner of the 2024 Home Baking Association Educator Award:
Melinda Keenan
Family & Consumer Science Educator
East Coweta High School
Sharpsburg, Georgia
Winning Entry: Nutrient Rich Baking: Incorporating the 6 Essential Nutrients
“For as long as I can remember, I have always loved to bake. As a little girl, I would stand on my tiptoes to help my Grangran crack eggs and stir cake batter. She would always let me help, even if it meant picking shells out of the batter. Instead of watching cartoons, my dad and I would watch all kinds of baking shows on the Food Network. Baking has always been part of my life, and that passion only grew as I got older.
In high school, I would make cupcakes for any occasion I could think of. Of course, I would bring baked goods to school on my friend’s birthday, but my passion really showed when I made a cake that looked like the internal structure of a plant cell for my biology class. Incorporating baking into my life allowed me to be passionate about something. In my sophomore year at East Coweta High School, I signed up for a class called Family and Consumer Sciences. I was placed exactly where I was meant to be, with a teacher who would nurture and encourage my passion for baking, Ms. Howard. She helped me become more confident, and before I knew it, we had started a small baking club that met after school.
Now I am a mom of two, and I use the passion I have for baking to make memories with my sons. I take pride in baking different breads and pastries for them that, as cliché as it sounds, I pour my heart and soul into. I love to see their faces when they try something new and my husband is my biggest supporter and taste tester.
I recently transitioned to a new position at my alma mater. Last year, I taught the same Family and Consumer Science class that made such an impact on me as a teenager. This part of my life has come full circle, and I feel so blessed to be living my dream. Being recognized for this award is humbling as well as affirming what I have always known in my heart: if you follow your passion and work hard, you can achieve great things. Thank you so much for providing another opportunity to take my baking to the next level.”
2024 Bake to Give: Maddie Kruse Youth Award – After reviewing numerous inspiring stories and initiatives, the Home Baking Association is pleased to announce the winner:
Noah Rabinowitz
High School Student
Dix Hills, New York
Winning Entry:
Noah’s Community Cakes
” I started Noah’s Community Cakes as a way to have a leadership position in my community. Baking has always been fun for me, so I asked my local soup kitchen about baking cakes for them. They serve lunch but rely on donations for dessert, so it was a great fit. My program is designed to enable busy kids to give back, so when the cakes are baking, I study and do homework. Over the past year, I have had over 100 kids help me and I’m proud to say I have donated over 550 cakes. My goal is to donate 1,000 cakes by my 18th birthday, but I am well on my way to reaching it, so I plan to bake even more. I think everyone deserves something sweet as a part of their day and I am happy that Noah’s Community Cakes can provide this to my community.”
Honorable Mentions:
Sophia Fontecchio
Downingtown, PA
Entry: Let’s Bake the World A Better Place
Jadyn Kay Ramazani
Brandon, SD
Entry: Serving Those Who have Served Us
In a world where culinary traditions are cherished, baking holds a special place in our hearts. It is a delightful art that brings people together, fostering joy, creativity, and a sense of community. At the Home Baking Association, we believe in the power of baking education and the remarkable impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.
The Importance of Baking Education and Community Projects: These awards are a testament to the incredible work being done to educate and inspire others through the art of baking. Baking education equips individuals with valuable life skills, promotes creativity, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, community baking projects allow us to come together, share our passion, and support those in need.
Let’s Work Together: Baking is more than just a delicious pastime; it is a catalyst for connection, creativity, and positive change. The winners of the 2024 Home Baking Association Educator Award and the Bake to Give: Maddie Kruse Youth Award have demonstrated the transformative power of baking education and community projects. Let us celebrate their achievements and join hands in supporting educators and young bakers who are shaping a brighter future through their passion and dedication. Remember, every batch of cookies, loaf of bread, or cake holds the potential to bring joy and make a difference.
