Montgomery County Commissioner Thomas DiBello sported an apron and joined culinary students at Montgomery County Community College’s Hospitality Institute on October 28 for a hands-on pizza-making experience. MCCC President Dr. Vicki Bastecki-Perez joined him as they fired up the custom-built woodfired pizza oven.

Commissioner DiBello, who previously owned a pizza shop, was enthusiastic about connecting with students and sharing his passion in this state-of-the-art facility. The event highlighted MCCC’s commitment to workforce development and community engagement through its innovative programs.

“The Hospitality Institute at the Montgomery County Community College is an incredible resource for students who want to get the real-world, hands-on experience they need to succeed in the workforce,” said Commissioner DiBello. “It was a lot of fun to get back behind the counter and toss a pizza again. I used to own a pizza shop back in my hometown, so spending the afternoon with the MCCC students brought back some great memories.”

“It was a pleasure to welcome Commissioner DiBello back to our Hospitality Institute and showcase the exceptional hands-on training that prepares Montco students for successful careers in high-demand industries throughout Montgomery County and beyond,” said Dr. Vicki Bastecki-Perez, President of MCCC. “Our student-run Bistro 1964 and Bakery 340 offer more than just unparalleled practical experience—they foster meaningful community connections by bringing people together through food, hospitality, and shared learning.”

MCCC’s 20,180-square-foot Hospitality Institute features modern, fully equipped kitchens, specialized laboratories (including pasta, chocolate and fermentation), indoor and outdoor seating areas and two educational venues—Bistro 1964 and Bakery 340. These spaces provide students with hands-on industry and entrepreneurial experience.

The innovative kitchen also supports creative initiatives like the award-winning Food Recovery Program, which repurposes excess food from culinary classes into nutritious meals for the College’s food pantry. The program addresses food insecurity while reducing landfill waste and was honored with  the national 2023-2024 Innovation of the Year Award from the League for Innovation in the Community College.

At MCCC, students can pursue associate degrees and/or certificates in Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts and Tourism & Hospitality Management. The Hospitality Institute also offers culinary enthusiast community workshops, ServSafe certification courses and summer camps for youth.