The 32nd Annual Ethnic Food Fair at Zane State College

Zanesville, OH–The 32nd annual Ethnic Food Fair took place today at Zane State to kick off their MLK Day Celebrations.

The campus welcomed many attendees to enjoy dishes representing four different nations. This year, guests had the opportunity to sample food from Jamaica, France, Italy, and, of course, America, featuring soul food that is rooted in African American culture and cuisine.

“Well, I hope they’re full when they leave this event,” Zane State President Chad Brown said.  “I hope they recognize the unique talents that are all around us. Everyone has something they’re called to do. These students are called to communicate through food.”

This student-led culinary arts experience was prepared by Zane State Culinary Arts students under the guidance of Chef Marco Adornetto, and it was a hit.

Many people raved about the Jamaican food station as well as the Italian food station.

While food was a significant part of this event, it was not the main takeaway. As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches, it’s important to remember we’re called to band together despite our differences.

Event speaker and ZSC chief strategy officer Marketta Thomas hopes her presentation could serve as a reminder to continue doing the work for future generations.

“Regardless of our circumstances, regardless of how low we are there is a plan for us to be better, for us to achieve, for us to overcome and never giving up hope and making sure that each day we commit to the work every day, every job, every time and doing it together as a collective community so that we can win together,” Thomas said.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Joyce A Farmer Smith Memorial Scholarship to continue the advancement of minority students at Zane State and to raise awareness of minority issues.