Meet the 2026 Aarón Sánchez Scholarship Recipients
We are proud to introduce the Aarón Sánchez Scholarship Class of 2026: six talented young adults who are beginning an exciting new chapter in their culinary journeys.
This summer, Julia Dimmick Bell, Su Garcia, Diego Ixtabalan, Manny Jaramillo, Gael Moya, and Carlos Soriano will pursue a Culinary Arts Certificate at New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI). As part of the Aarón Sánchez Scholarship, recipients receive formal culinary education, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship from Chef Aarón Sánchez and other industry professionals. Additionally, each recipient will complete a one-week internship tailored to their personal career interests.
Each recipient brings a unique story, a deep passion for food, and a clear commitment to growing within the culinary industry. Together, they represent the next generation of kitchen leaders, each ready to learn and eager to pursue what comes next.
The Class of 2026
Julia Dimmick Bell – Cottage Grove, WI
Julia has built a strong foundation through her high school culinary arts program and her recent work as a restaurant hostess. After touring NOCHI last year, she knew it was where she wanted to continue her education. Following her time in New Orleans, Julia plans to study Baking & Pastry at the Culinary Institute of America in New York.
Su Garcia – Clarksville, TN
Su developed an early connection to the culinary and hospitality industry through her family’s Mexican restaurant, which her parents owned from the time she was six until she was sixteen. She recently worked as a Culinary Specialist at Onsite Workshops, where food is part of a broader experience centered on therapy, counseling, and emotional wellness.
Diego Ixtabalan – Bastrop, TX
Diego has gained experience in professional kitchens and uses his culinary skills to serve his community. He recently worked as an Omakase Cook at OTOKO in Austin and volunteered with the Central Texas Food Bank, contributing to farm work, meal preparation, and cooking fundraisers.
Manny Jaramillo – Lakehurst, NJ
Manny holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and started working in restaurant kitchens to gain experience in the food industry. He is now taking the next step toward building a true career in the culinary field. Through his most recent workplace, Manny worked alongside Isyufran Reyes, a recipient of the Aarón Sánchez Scholarship Class of 2025.
Gael Moya – Napa, CA
Gael brings a drive to keep learning, supported by one semester of culinary training at community college and a year of experience in the food industry. He was most recently employed at Napa Valley Education Foundation—an Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund Human Services grantee.
Carlos Soriano – Raleigh, NC
Carlos graduated from high school in Covington, LA, and has since gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens. He most recently worked at the Umstead Hotel in North Carolina, where he continued to strengthen his culinary skills in a professional hospitality setting.
The Aarón Sánchez Scholarship empowers aspiring young chefs through culinary education, mentorship, and hands-on training that can open doors and shape long-term career pathways. As this new cohort begins their journey, we are proud to celebrate the talent, determination, and promise each recipient brings to the program.
Please join us in welcoming them. The Class of 2026 is scheduled to graduate in December 2026. We are excited to see all they accomplish during their time in New Orleans and beyond!
