Carl Thomas ’23: SUNY Erie Alumnus, Culinary Specialist and Author to Earn Second Academic Degree in May

For Carl Thomas, education has never been a one-time achievement. It’s been a lifelong journey. A SUNY Erie alumnus and returning student, his path reflects resilience, creativity, and a love for the culinary arts.

Thomas’ interest in cooking began at the age of 13 and is largely self-taught. While living at the Randolph Children’s Home in Randolph, New York, he used his weekly allowance to buy chicken wings and experimented in the kitchen. Cooking soon became both an outlet and a source of joy.

His early commitment to community engagement was recognized in 2007, when the Makowski Early Childhood Center acknowledged his participation in the African Marketplace’s Adventures on the Underground Railroad, a community market where he volunteered. He was again recognized in 2009 and 2011 for assisting with food service and participating in holiday family activities.

He received formal culinary training at The Belle Center on Buffalo’s West Side, where Chef Dave Rennie was an influential mentor. Thomas credits him with reinforcing that the culinary arts are rooted in love, passion and storytelling rather than profit.

Thomas continued his education at the D ’Avolio Culinary Institute, after completing 625 hours of training, earning a Certificate of Successful Completion in Basic Culinary Arts in 2008. The program taught discipline and professionalism, including proper knife skills, the importance of having a clean uniform, and cultivating a strong work ethic. He also worked for Delaware North at KeyBank Center in downtown Buffalo for two years, gaining real-life culinary experience. He recalls one instructor who left a lasting impression by teaching not just how to cook, but how to navigate life.

In 2009, Thomas expanded his creative skills by completing four professional cake decorating courses through Michaels and Wilton, earning Certificates of Merit in Discover Cake Decorating, Flowers and Borders, Fondant and Tiered Cakes, and Fondant and Gum Paste. That same year, he was honored by the Board of Education. In 2011, he enrolled in the Construction Trades program through the Virgina Adult Learning Center, where he explored electrician, carpentry, and plumbing programs. In March 2012, Thomas completed a 120-hour Residential Wiring course, which included an introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Energy Systems. He further advanced his education by earning a Certificate of Completion from the Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Erie County in November 2012.

Thomas continued building his technical skills with carpentry training at his high school, McKinley High, in May 2013, followed by earning additional Certificates of Completion from the Adult Learning Center and Cornell Cooperative Extension in 2014.

A major milestone came in 2020, when Thomas earned his General Educational Development certificate through the Virginia Adult Learning Center in Buffalo. This achievement marked a turning point, opening the door to higher education and new career possibilities.

After, he started at SUNY Erie Community College and earned an associate degree in Culinary Arts in 2023. His connection to SUNY Erie started long before he applied. 

“I was driving through the SUNY Erie North Campus with my cousin one day and said, I’m going to go here someday. And I did.”

In 2024, he re-applied and returned to SUNY Erie for the Business Administration program, motivated by his mother, who encouraged him to keep pushing forward and prepare for ownership and leadership.

“My mom encouraged me to go for it, work hard, and go back to school. She was right.”

Beyond the kitchen and classroom, Thomas is also an author. His first published book, The Big Dessert Book for Children, is available now and features baking recipes designed for kids. This book grew from his love of baking and his belief that food should be simple to make and share.

He is currently rewriting All Purpose, a 205-page book that explores recipes, pairings, and the inspiration behind them. During challenging times, he found expression through writing and comfort through baking. Thomas is also working on a third unpublished book, Campus, which focuses on how to cook in a dorm setting, another example of his desire to help others succeed.

Thomas is set to graduate in May 2026 with an associate degree in Business Administration, having completed his coursework ahead of schedule. He is dedicating his degree to the memory of his mother, Areisia Johnson.

Looking ahead, he plans to earn his Sous Chef Certification through the American Culinary Federation. The certification involves a rigorous 100-page exam and is valid for ten years. His long-term vision includes opening his own bakery, restaurant, and brewery in the Western New York area.

“SUNY Erie is a great school. It’s where you can get your start, earn your degree, and keep moving forward. The faculty and staff here are so supportive, and they really want to help you succeed.”

 

What made you decide on SUNY Erie and to return?
I love SUNY Erie because of the professors. Every single professor I had in both programs was outstanding.  They supported me then, and they still support me now. I stay connected by volunteering in the North Campus Statler’s Erie Room, and that’s a big reason why I came back. For special events, I dress to match the occasion. Dressing up for service makes me proud and is my way of giving back to the chefs and team I enjoy working with.

What is it like being both a SUNY Erie alumnus and a current student?
It’s a great experience. If I can do this, anyone can.  It reminds me to stay focused and grateful. Being in both roles also gives me a chance to give back and support other students as they start their own journeys.

What do you appreciate most about the SUNY Erie community?
How supportive and welcoming people are here, especially when they see me striving to better myself. It makes me feel like I belong and motivates me to keep pushing forward.

Is there a professor who stands out?
Business Administration Professor Schuyler Banks. He’s my mentor, almost like a father figure. His classes are different. He gives you materials up front and truly wants his students to succeed. Sports Management and Introduction to Business were my favorite classes.

What’s your favorite study spot on campus?
The quiet room in the library, or Professor Banks’ study area for students. Both places help me focus and get my work done without distractions.

What’s your go-to coffee or snack during exams?
Music. That’s all I need. It helps me concentrate and keeps me calm.

What advice do you have for people thinking about coming back to school?
If it’s what you want, go for it. Don’t let fear hold you back. Once you take the first step, the rest will follow.

What doors have opened since graduating from SUNY Erie?
Confidence. The job market is tough.  Many employers want young candidates, but experience really matters. I know what I bring to the table. SUNY Erie gave me the skills and knowledge to pursue opportunities I might not have imagined before.

What advice would you give new students?
Pay attention, understand the material, and be mindful of how you communicate with people. Know your due dates and meet your deadlines.  Ask questions and take advantage of the resources available at SUNY Erie.  Your efforts now will pay off in the long run.