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HGTC President, Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore (left), presents Temporary Staff of the Year
Award 2024, to Karen Focarrazo (right), Adjunct Faculty for Culinary Arts.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is proud to announce Karen Focarazzo, HGTC Adjunct Faculty for Culinary Arts, was named the Temporary Staff of the Year for 2024. Karen has been a dedicated and invaluable member of the Fowler Dining Room team at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach since 2015. Her commitment to excellence, her organizational skills, and her deep care for HGTC students’ education have made her a beloved figure in the HGTC community.
Karen’s journey with HGTC began nine (9) years ago, and since then, she has welcomed the community into the Fowler Dining Room with grace and fellowship. Her dedication to the students and her ability to remain calm under pressure have made her an essential part of the HGTC team. Her colleagues describe her as knowledgeable, kind, and professional, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of the Fowler Dining Room.
President of HGTC, Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore, expressed her admiration for Karen’s contributions, “Karen’s dedication and passion for her work are truly inspiring. She has made a significant impact on the Internation Culinary Institute and our students. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team, and this recognition is well-deserved.”
Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, Joe Bonaparte, also shared his thoughts, “Karen is the glue that holds the service portion of The Fowler Dining Room together. Her knowledge, kindness, and professionalism set a high standard for everyone around her. She is a true asset to our institute, and we are thrilled to see her receive this honor.”
Karen’s extensive experience in the food service industry, including her roles at California State University, Fresno, and her training with Starbucks Corporation, has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to excel in her current role. Her educational background, including a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University, Fresno, further highlights her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Karen’s hard work, dedication, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on the HGTC community, and the College is proud to celebrate her achievements.
To find out more about the HGTC International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach or other HGTC programs, call 843-347-3186 or visit hgtc.edu/culinary.