SUNY Adirondack offers Josh Cellars scholarship

QUEENSBURY, New York (June 24, 2024) — SUNY Adirondack Foundation is proud to announce the Josh Cellars Culinary Award, a new scholarship in recognition of vintner Joseph Carr.

The scholarship will be awarded to students who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the Culinary Arts and set a standard of excellence in hospitality.

“As host of a high-profile fundraiser for the college’s Culinary program each year, Joseph Carr has demonstrated generosity of his time and talent with our students, hospitality partners and community members,” said Rachael Hunsinger Patten, chief advancement officer at SUNY Adirondack and executive director of SUNY Adirondack Foundation. “We’re honored to recognize his commitment to our Culinary program and students.”

The Josh Cellars Culinary Award, which was announced at a spring semester fundraising event at Seasoned, SUNY Adirondack’s student-run restaurant, will initially provide $2,500 per year.

Carr, who grew up in rural Rensselaer County, founded Josh Cellars in 2007 as a tribute to his father, Josh. Through a 20-year relationship with SUNY Adirondack Culinary Instructor and Chef Matt Bolton, Carr teamed with the college’s Culinary program to offer a wine-and-food pairing dinner while interacting with students and sharing stories of his life in hospitality.

“We have done countless wine dinners over the years, and Joe and his wife, Deirdre, have been and always will be an inspiration to me,” Bolton said. “Their love, courage and conviction toward the American dream is the definition of what can be accomplished with dedication and passion of hospitality.”

“A scholarship in my name is quite an honor,” Carr said. “It’s always great to witness the future of the Culinary Arts, and play a part.”

The Josh Cellars Culinary Award is one of more than 100 separately established scholarship funds that will provide more than $400,000 for SUNY Adirondack students in the 2024-2025 year.