Success Stories

Leigh Brown

Graduated: 2005, Western Culinary Institute
Degree: Associate of Occupational Studies Degree in Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality & Restaurant Management
Current Position: Urban Wineworks, Portland, OR

Leigh Brown’s career in the hospitality industry began with her interest in catering. After graduating as a music major and an accomplished harpist, Leigh sought out her next goal of working in the hospitality industry by obtaining another degree at Western Culinary Institute (WCI). Her initial decision of coming to Portland from Indiana was the first of many life-changing experiences she made upon her choosing to work towards a culinary-related degree. She ultimately chose WCI because of its location and Portland’s livability and because, as she says, “The school excited me”.

Even though – or perhaps because – Leigh initially looked to WCI for training in the catering industry, she chose the Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality & Restaurant Management program for its combination of business management and culinary training. As a career-changing adventure, Leigh commented on her thorough enjoyment in meeting new friends, making new industry contacts and learning the many facets of the wine industry. Her commitment to her education was evident when she was selected for her externship with one of WCI’s instructors, John Eliassen, at his winery, La Bete. There Leigh learned more about wine making, grapes, the fermentation process and taste. These interests and her dedication to learning propelled Leigh to her current position at Urban Wineworks, a local wine shop and tasting center.

Today, Leigh works in the public relations department at Urban Wineworks in Portland, which houses the tasting room for Bishop Creek Cellars based in Yamhill, OR. She is a contributor to the shop’s newsletter. She also coordinates the tasting club and is an instructor for their open-to-the-public classes and for their private event tastings. Leigh was additionally a contributor to the Six Degrees Event, the celebration of Urban Winework’s sixth anniversary. Through her hard work and the knowledge gained at WCI, she was able to work her way up into this position.

Leigh’s goals in the hospitality industry continue as she looks to further her wine knowledge and possibly get into food writing. She expresses how WCI was great fit for her, but she urges others to find “the perfect fit” for each individual.

Career success will depend largely on the effort put into studies, job search efforts, experience and attitude. Le Cordon Bleu does not and cannot guarantee employment, and the experience of the alumni is not representative of all students.