CANTON Mass. Dunkin’ Brands Inc., parent of the Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins quick-service chains, Wednesday pledged $1 million to become a founding donor of the Culinary Institute of America’s “El Sueno,” or The Dream, initiative. The donation, which will be paid over five years beginning in 2009, will support the construction of baking and pastry kitchens at the college’s main campus in Hyde Park, N.Y., and new campus in San Antonio. The CIA has set a goal of elevating the profile of Latin American food.
“Dunkin’ Brands is proud to support the educational facilities that will help to advance the growing influence of Latino cuisine,” said Jon Luther, chairman and chief executive of Dunkin’ Brands. “We deeply respect the CIA¹s rich history; President [Tim] Ryan¹s proven leadership; and the steadfast dedication to quality education provided by the administration, faculty and alumni to benefit students from around the world.”
The CIA’s Ryan applauded the donation, saying it would help provide education and create “an opportunity for aspiring Latino chefs and bakers to receive a quality education that strengthens their preparation for becoming culinary leaders.” He added, “Central to achieving this goal is the establishment of facilities and curriculum that embrace Latin American culinary, baking and pastry traditions.” The CIA said it expects construction of the new kitchen facilities to be completed in 2010.
Dunkin’ Brands, based in Canton, has more than 13,800 franchises in 49 countries worldwide. The company had systemwide sales of $6.6 billion in 2007.
