Meet the Faculty
The Culinary Institute of Michigan faculty at our Port Huron and Muskegon campuses feature the most professional experience and credentials you’ll find at any college, including published authors and PhDs. View out this industry-leading team of mentors who will help you achieve success both in your education and your career.
Academic Leadership

Thomas Recinella, CEC®, AAC®
Honorable Order of the Golden Toque
Dean of Culinary

Paula Recinella, CHE®, HAAC®
Instructor
Program Director/Restaurant Manager

Amanda Miller, CSC®, WCSC®, CEPC®
CIM Specialty Coordinator (Muskegon)

Christopher Sowa, CEC®, AAC®
CIM Specialty Coordinator (Muskegon)
CIM Faculty and Staff

Ben Ackerman
Culinary Supply Chain & Procurement Coordinator (Muskegon)
Adjunct Faculty

Kassie Beach, CSC®
Chef Instructor

Richard Brewer
Facilities Supervisor

Nick Cornfield, CEC®
Full-Time Faculty
Executive Chef Courses Restaurant (Port Huron)

Jennifer Hardenburgh-Martin
Chef Instructor

Robin Haskins
Custodian

Jessica Hazel, CWPC®
Chef Instructor

Rachael Hill
Adjunct Faculty

Samantha Joslin, CWPC®
Chef Instructor

Ashley King, CWPC®
Chef Instructor

Justin Kinziger, MS
Assistant Professor
Full-Time Faculty

John Lakatos
Chef Instructor

Adam Light
Culinary Supply Chain & Procurement Coordinator (Port Huron)
Adjunct Faculty

Deb Smith
Admissions Advisor

Jamie Sowa, M.Ed.
Adjunct Faculty

Dave Spicher
Adjunct Faculty

Scott Twichell, CEPC®
Assistant Professor
Full-Time Faculty
Lead Baking and Pastry Chef Instructor (Port Huron)

Karlee Valley, CEPC®, MBA
Full-Time Faculty

Crystal Williams
Chef Instructor

Charles (Max) Zimmer
Chef Instructor
Not Pictured:
Lisa Lucas
Administrative Assistant (Port Huron)
Candace White, RS®
Adjunct Faculty
Custodian