Sweet Success: Executive Pastry Chef and JJC Alum Shares His Recipe for Excellence
In episode six of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis celebrates the milestone of six months on air with a special guest, Andy Chlebana, a JJC alum, Culinary Professor, and Certified Master Pastry Chef. Andy shares his journey from working in the culinary field at age 16, following his brother to JJC, to finding his passion for baking and pastry. Andy discusses his extensive experience in competitions, including the prestigious Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie in Lyon, France, where he served as team captain.
The conversation delves into the grueling nature of culinary competitions and what it takes to become a Certified Master Pastry Chef, a certification obtained by only eleven chefs in the country. Despite numerous accolades, Andy's passion for teaching at JJC shines through. He explains his role in the college's culinary program, the importance of real-world experiences for students, and his dedication to fostering student growth. The podcast also covers events like the Wandering Feast, a highly anticipated culinary showcase and fundraiser.
Andy emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in students' lives and the multitude of opportunities available at JJC. The episode concludes with Andy offering valuable advice for new JJC students, encouraging them to take full advantage of all the college's offerings.
The conversation delves into the grueling nature of culinary competitions and what it takes to become a Certified Master Pastry Chef, a certification obtained by only eleven chefs in the country. Despite numerous accolades, Andy's passion for teaching at JJC shines through. He explains his role in the college's culinary program, the importance of real-world experiences for students, and his dedication to fostering student growth. The podcast also covers events like the Wandering Feast, a highly anticipated culinary showcase and fundraiser.
Andy emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in students' lives and the multitude of opportunities available at JJC. The episode concludes with Andy offering valuable advice for new JJC students, encouraging them to take full advantage of all the college's offerings.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations at Joliet Junior College. A former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education, supporting students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. In her leadership role, Jen oversees initiatives that strengthen connections between JJC and its alumni, fostering engagement and building lasting relationships. Her responsibilities include strategic planning for alumni outreach, organizing small and large-scale events, managing annual giving campaigns, and collaborating across departments to create meaningful opportunities for alumni involvement.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn serves as the Executive Director of the Joliet Junior College Foundation and Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, a role she assumed in January 2026. Throughout her career at JJC, she has held several key positions including Grant Writer, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager, and Director of Institutional Advancement, giving her a deep understanding of the college’s philanthropic priorities and partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda leads philanthropic engagement strategies that advance student success. Her strategic vision, strong donor relationships, and commitment to JJC’s mission continue to drive the college’s growth and impact.
Guest
Andy Chlebana
Andy Chlebana, CMPC, CCA, is a distinguished pastry chef and educator with extensive experience in recipe development and culinary competitions. Currently serving as a Professor and Executive Pastry Chef at Joliet Junior College, he has been instrumental in designing and implementing innovative baking and pastry curricula while training future chefs in both theory and practical applications. As the author of "The Advanced Art of Baking and Pastry," he develops and writes manuscripts, researches and creates recipes, and prepares all accompanying images and procedures. Chlebana's competitive prowess is highlighted by his impressive accolades, including serving as a judge and coach for the USA Pastry Team at the prestigious Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie, as well as winning multiple medals at international competitions such as the IKA Culinary Olympics, Culinary World Cup, Dubai Hospitality World Cup, and the Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship. His dedication to the culinary arts and commitment to excellence make him a prominent figure in the pastry community.
