HLSCC unveils alumna-designed chef jackets to strengthen
H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) has unveiled new chef jackets for its Culinary Arts Programme designed by alumna Kirsten C. Frazer of Trefle Inc., a move the college says will strengthen ties between education and industry and raise professional standards. New reporting from Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) adds further detail on the jackets’ design, purpose and the college’s wider strategy, and confirms the garments will debut at the HLSCC 2026 Graduation Ceremony.
Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) has unveiled a new uniform for its Culinary Arts Programme: chef jackets designed by college alumna Kirsten C. Frazer, founder and creative director of local fashion house Trefle Inc. The college describes the initiative as part of a deliberate effort to strengthen links between education and industry while elevating professional standards in culinary training (HLSCC/VINO; locally first reported by Guavaberry).
According to HLSCC and reporting by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), Frazer completed her studies in the College’s Culinary Arts Programme before founding her fashion and design company, making the project a “full‑circle moment” for the designer. “HLSCC helped shape my journey, and being able to give back in a way that supports today’s students is incredibly meaningful,” Frazer said in comments relayed by the college and reported by VINO.
VINO’s account also refers to her as Kristin C. Frazer; local records and college statements identify her as Kirsten C. College officials and VINO say the jackets combine functionality, craftsmanship and contemporary design, created to reinforce professional identity and pride among students while aligning the training environment with modern hospitality and culinary industry expectations.
Frazer told HLSCC/VINO the garments were designed with “professionalism, confidence, and purpose” in mind—qualities she says are essential in the culinary sector. The uniforms will make their first official appearance at the HLSCC 2026 Graduation Ceremony, when Culinary Arts graduands will wear the designs as they mark completion of their studies.
HLSCC leaders say the debut symbolises both tradition and transition, an outward sign that industry readiness and professional standards are woven into the student experience from classroom to workplace (HLSCC/VINO). Keshia Davis‑Barnes, Director of Hospitality and Culinary Arts at HLSCC, described the collaboration with Trefle Inc. as a tangible expression of the College’s strategic direction. “Our focus is on ensuring that students are immersed in professional standards from the moment they enter our programmes,” she said, adding that partnering with an alumna who understands both the HLSCC experience and industry realities sends a powerful message about the connection between education and real‑world opportunity (HLSCC/VINO).
Davis‑Barnes also stressed that “the hospitality industry is evolving,” and that the college’s programmes must evolve alongside it. The chef jacket launch complements recent departmental developments, including HLSCC’s partnership with Les Roches through the Maître D Certificate Programme, which gives students access to internationally recognised service training.
College officials told VINO the initiative is part of a broader plan to expand industry engagement, alumni partnerships, workforce incentives and experiential opportunities, with additional announcements expected in the coming months. “This collaboration reflects the values we stand for as an institution,” said Dr.
Brunton, Vice President of Academic Affairs, underscoring how education, creativity and partnership can build opportunity for students and the wider BVI community. For a territory that relies on hospitality and tourism, HLSCC’s move signals an investment in local talent and in the professional standards employers increasingly expect (HLSCC/VINO; Guavaberry).
Primary source: Guavaberry