A Recipe for Impact: Meet Rich Lint, 2025 Student of the Year

At CT State Community College Gateway, leadership is about action, empathy, and the lasting imprint one leaves on others. Because Richard Lint, a proud dad and president of the Gateway Culinary Club, embodies these traits, he earned the honor of being 2025 Student of the Year. 

Rich graduated with his Associate Degree in Culinary Arts. His influence extends far beyond the kitchen. Over the past year, he’s organized community fundraisers, supported classmates as a peer tutor and mentor, and led efforts that brought national opportunities for fellow students including a transformative trip to the New York Restaurant Show. 

But his most meaningful legacy is one that captures the very spirit of Gateway: collaboration. Rich brought together students studying culinary arts, nutrition, photography, English, and publications to create something entirely new, the first Gateway student cookbook “Sweeter by the Dozen”.  

The recipes were developed and tested by students under the guidance of Chef William Stewart. The book celebrates student voices, creativity, and shared purpose. In just one week, the cookbook not only generated royalties for student contributors—it raised over $800 for scholarships. Copies are available for purchase in Cafe Vincenzo at 20 Church Street.  

“In seven years, I’ve never seen a student contribute more to CT State Community College Gateway,” shared one faculty member. 

Rich shows that when you invest in a student, you’re investing in everyone they uplift. Thanks to your support, a scholarship became a launchpad and a student became a leader. Thank you for believing in what’s possible at Gateway. 

Congratulations, Rich.