Mary Calfas Janos Legacy Scholarship

Mary Calfas Janos had a deep and lasting love for food, travel, and the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. Though born in the United States, Mary was proud of her Greek heritage. She visited Greece often, finding joy in reconnecting with her roots and savoring the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. Her travels extended beyond Greece to include frequent visits to Italy, Spain, and France—countries whose food and culture she held close to her heart.

At home, Mary was rarely far from her kitchen. She loved nothing more than browsing through her extensive cookbook collection in search of the next great recipe to try. Whether cooking for family or experimenting with new dishes, she found happiness in preparing meals that brought people together.

To honor her memory and her lifelong passion for Mediterranean cuisine, Mary’s trust has made a generous gift to the Culinary Institute of America. This donation will support students who share her enthusiasm for the culinary arts, particularly those who wish to explore the diverse and vibrant food traditions of the Mediterranean region.

Mary’s spirit lives on in the meals we share, the traditions we preserve, and in the future chefs whose dreams she is helping to nourish.