Sue Z. Scholarship Fund
The Sue Zelickson Scholarship Fund supports the next generation of women pursuing careers in Minnesota’s food and hospitality industry. Established through Women Who Really Cook and administered in partnership with the Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation, the scholarship provides financial support to women pursuing post-secondary education in culinary arts, hospitality, foodservice, food science, and other food-related fields.
The scholarship reflects a value that Sue Zelickson carried throughout her life: when you see potential in someone, you help them move forward. Sue was a tireless champion of women in the food industry and believed deeply in making connections, opening doors, and creating opportunities for others. Through this fund, her commitment to supporting the next generation continueshe - helping talented women pursue their education, build their careers, and become part of the future of Minnesota’s food and hospitality community.
We are deeply grateful for your support of the Sue Zelickson Scholarship Fund. Managed by Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation, contribution is tax-deductible and directly supports aspiring women in the food industry!
OR Make checks payable to:
Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation -
Sue Zelickson Scholarship Fund
Mail directly to HMEF offices:
121 S. 8th Street, Suite 970
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Scholarship Recipients
Since its establishment in 2025, the Sue Zelickson Scholarship Fund has helped support the education and career aspirations of the following incredible women as they pursue their futures in food, culinary arts, hospitality, and related fields.
2025 Recipients
Paige Goehner
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities | Food Science & Nutrition
Spring Lake Park High School
Ava Tvedt
Hennepin Technical College | Baking & Pastry Arts
Elk River High School
Nardos Yezihalem
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities | Food Science
Rosemount High School
Amele Akakpo
Hennepin Technical College | Culinary Arts
Prudencio High School, Togo
2026 Recipients
Paige Goehner
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Spring Lake Park High School
Natalie Gruba
University of St. Thomas
Mahtomedi
Ana Giselle Ortega Peralta
Saint Paul College
Roosevelt High School
Ava Tvedt
Hennepin Technical College
Elk River High School
Wondering about your impact? No one explains it better than our current scholarship recipients.
“This scholarship has allowed me to have a large burden taken off my shoulders and left me with breathing room for paying for my schooling. It paid for over 800 dollars worth of equipment and uniforms needed for my classes, and helped me out with other various expenses. My life has greatly improved with the job opportunities and networking opportunities I have gotten through this scholarship and I will always be grateful to Sue Zelickson and WWRC for this amazing program. I hope others can benefit from this program too in the future! -- Ava Tvedt
“This support has truly made a difference in my life. As a full-time student balancing school and work, the financial relief has allowed me to focus more on my education and my growth in the culinary field without the constant worry about expenses. It has helped me stay on track with my program and manage essential needs, such as tools, class materials, food, and, especially, transportation.
Beyond the financial impact, the connection with WWRC has been incredibly inspiring. Meeting the board members and the other scholarship recipients has given me a sense of community and motivation. Knowing that there are people who believe in my potential has encouraged me to keep pushing forward, even during challenging moments. The support and mentorship I’ve received through these connections have made me feel more confident and more at home in my culinary journey.
I’m truly thankful for everything this scholarship has provided; opportunity, encouragement, financial stability, and a strong network of people who want to see me succeed.”
–Amele Akakpo
"The Sue Zelickson scholarship truly gave me a solid foundation for my future and the confidence to continue into higher education. I am currently financing school by myself, which can be quite daunting for a new adult. Because of this reality, I was essentially required to apply for every scholarship I could find and that I was eligible for, so that my dream school and education were even somewhat attainable.
Not only has the financial aspect of the scholarship been such a benefit to my education and I, being able to meet the women of WWRC, network with them and make those connections, and hear everybody's stories has been so inspirational and has truly opened my eyes to how influential the web of women in food around me really is. Continuing to fund this scholarship, I can guarantee, will create an unmatched community and sense of support for years of young women to come.”
–Paige Goehner