The University of Arkansas Department of Poultry Science secured first place in the Allied Division of the Poultry Federation's 28th Annual All Member Cooking Competition, held during the 64th Annual Poultry Festival in June 2024. The victory came after the team, led by Rodney Wolfe (team manager) and Blake Nelson (chief cook), prepared over 60 pounds of chicken thighs and 50 leg quarters for the event.
The cooking team, composed of faculty, staff and students including Sarah Johnson, Savannah Wells-Crafton, Courtney Shumate, Maricela Maqueda, Mitchell Vaught, and Mike Kidd, achieved success through meticulous preparation. They practiced cooking beforehand, with Sarah Johnson testing different spice and sauce combinations, and Savannah Wells-Crafton coordinating plating design.
Nelson credited the team's careful preparation for their success, noting the effort of Rodney Wolfe and others in ensuring all the tools were ready. The team cooked all day, starting early in the morning and finishing by 3:30 p.m., with their chicken plates submitted for judging at 10:30 a.m. Their hard work paid off, marking their third win in four years in this prestigious competition.
David Caldwell, head of the department of poultry science, expressed pride in the team's efforts, highlighting how the cooking team plays a key role in department events, including cooking for tailgates and industry gatherings.
The victory reflects not only the skills of the cooking team but also the dedication of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, which supports students and faculty in their growth and contributions to the agriculture and food industries.
