Trinity Community Gathers for Feast of Ideas with Chef José Andrés at Connecticut Forum

When chef José Andrés took the stage for The Connecticut Forum on April 3, the audience wasn’t just treated to the thoughts of a world-renowned chef and humanitarian—they witnessed a heartfelt conversation. Trinity College served as host for the evening of culinary wisdom, humanitarian purpose, and community connection.

Andrés is the founder of World Central Kitchen, a non-profit specializing in delivering food relief in the wake of natural and humanitarian disasters. The discussion was moderated by Trinity alumnus Danny Meyer ’80, P’20, H’24, award-winning restaurateur and founder of Union Square Hospitality Group and Shake Shack. Meyer and his longtime acquaintance Andrés explored everything from the food science behind “liquid olives” to profound reflections on serving others and building community.

Among those in attendance at The Bushnell for “An Evening with José Andrés” were Trinity community members spanning generations—from current students to distinguished alumni, faculty, and staff. While introducing the program, Trinity President Joanne Berger-Sweeney said, “Our conversation tonight bridges two remarkable journeys—one led by our distinguished moderator, Danny Meyer, a Trinity alumnus who has defined the art of hospitality, and the other by chef José Andrés, a global humanitarian whose kitchen has become a beacon of hope in the world’s most challenging moments.”

The event highlighted numerous connections between Trinity and Andrés’ work. Trinity alumnus Jamie McDonald IDP ’00, the co-owner of Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ who was present at the event, has volunteered with World Central Kitchen. This connection was further explored during a “Forum Encore!” screening of the Ron Howard-directed documentary We Feed People at Trinity’s Cinestudio on March 27, featuring McDonald discussing his experiences with World Central Kitchen.

Andrés, a two-time Time magazine “100 Most Influential People” honoree and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, shared stories that connected deeply with many in attendance. From his childhood memories of his mother’s end-of-month croquetas to establishing World Central Kitchen after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, Andrés demonstrated how personal passion can transform into global impact.

“Opening the restaurants was never about business for me—I had stories I wanted to tell and learning I wanted to do,” Andrés said. This sentiment echoed throughout the evening as Andrés and Meyer explored the intersection of culinary arts and humanitarian work. “The biggest gift or opportunity anyone can have is to serve others,” Andrés said.

When Meyer asked how Andrés balances his restaurants, humanitarian work, and family life, the chef replied, “We are who we are because of the people around us,” emphasizing the importance of community support.

Gabby Nelson, associate director of Trinity’s Center for Urban and Global Studies, reflected, “One thing José Andrés said that stuck with me was that the goal of philanthropy must be the liberation of the receiver. To hear him talk about his approach to philanthropy, charity, and politics resonated differently because of his commitment and experience.”

Eric Stoykovich, college archivist and manuscript librarian at Trinity’s Watkinson Library, added, “José made us think, smile, laugh, cry—and clap. He is a consummate performer and serious advocate of good causes.”

Trinity students in attendance found Andrés’ message both inspiring and relevant. Zamia Barradas ’28, a public policy major, said, “My biggest takeaway was the importance of community and respect and listening to others as a way to grow and learn. As a public policy major, it was very transformative to think of policy as a way in which we could not just bring people together, but learn from each other.”

Barradas added, “This was a very eye-opening experience, and I was very inspired to learn more about the power of a meal, and how Trinity alums are out there changing the world, making a path for current Trinity students.”

The evening reached a heartwarming crescendo when the audience celebrated the 90th birthday of legendary chef Jacques Pépin, who was in attendance. After leading the audience in singing “Happy Birthday,” Andrés raised a toast: “To the next 90 years of Jacques Pépin!” Trinity student Izabella Bautista ’26 helped to deliver a pastry with candles to Pépin, creating a moment of cross-generational celebration that embodied the community spirit of the evening.

Andrés and Meyer demonstrated that whether serving meals in disaster zones or reinventing hospitality, the ingredients for meaningful change always include compassion, creativity, and connection. Their conversation exemplified Berger-Sweeney’s vision for Trinity of “educating students not just who succeed, but those who will lead transformative lives.”

A new season of The Connecticut Forum begins in September. Trinity is an education partner of the Forum, supporting the free and active exchange of ideas while providing unique learning opportunities beyond the classroom.