James William Fricker III '00 Memorial Scholarship

James Fricker ’00James, 48, known as Jimmy to everyone, passed tragically and unexpectedly on July 2,2024. Jimmy was born on June 2, 1976 in Philadelphia, PA. He had an interest in the food industry since the age of 13 after landing a job in a local bakery ‘by accident.’ He graduated from Archbishop Ryan High School and then worked in local bakeries before applying to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, earning his degree in Baking and Pastry Arts in March 2000. His natural talent for sculpture led him to produce beautiful works in ice, sugar, and chocolate.

After graduation Jimmy moved to Las Vegas, NV, working at several casinos before rising to executive pastry chef at Green Valley Ranch Station. His sugar and chocolate work were featured on the reality show American Casino. He shared his talents teaching at UNLV and by working with many chefs around the country. Jimmy’s desire for adventure and travel led him to Shanghai, China where he realized his dream of opening his own pastry shop, Mon Reve. He eventually returned to Las Vegas and then Philadelphia, often helping friends in the industry with openings and development.

Jimmy is survived by his parents, two sisters, two nieces, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Rarely did a family dinner go by without his talents elevating the meal. Our freezers remain stuffed with his stocks and starters. He will always be remembered for his many travels, his adventurous spirit, and enduring devotion to his friends and family. He was passionate about chess, biking, scuba diving, poker and various artistic mediums. He will be dearly missed.

Jimmy was always appreciative of the foundational skills he learned at CIA. It is our hope that by establishing this scholarship someone will be able to follow in his footsteps and make the world a more beautiful and delicious place.