John Aisenstat Memorial Scholarship fundraiser a great success

Photo: VCC President and CEO Ajay Patel and President and CEO of Hy’s of Canada, Neil Aisenstat

On Wednesday, February 4, the Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation hosted the annual John Aisenstat Memorial Scholarship fundraising event, welcoming more than 130 guests to Gotham Steakhouse & Bar in Downtown Vancouver. 

This sumptuous affair raised $16,675, the most ever raised at this event! We are incredibly grateful to everyone who showed their support, with a special thanks to supplier partner Castello Banfi, President and CEO of Hy’s of Canada, Neil Aisenstat and the rest of the Aisentat and Hy families, as well as Gotham’s Steakhouse. All proceeds directly sustain the John Aisenstat Memorial Scholarship endowment at VCC for students studying and pursuing careers in hospitality.

“The John Aisenstat Memorial Scholarship fundraiser is a great example of how critical industry partners are to us and VCC students,” said Ajay Patel, President and CEO of VCC. “Through them, we offer real-world experiences for students, as well as financial support, and we are grateful for all of the generosity our industry partners offer.”

John Aisenstat was the son of Hy Aisenstat, legendary restaurant mogul and founder of Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar. John was known for his good humour, active political life, and passion for the hospitality industry. After his death in 2018, a scholarship in his name was established at VCC, helping hospitality students on their educational journey.

Held for the first time at Gotham’s Steakhouse, attendees dined, shared stories about the industry’s past, present, and future, and celebrated John’s inspiring passion for Vancouver’s dynamic culinary landscape. His impact on VCC students and Vancouver’s culinary scene is deeply felt, and we thank the community again for their enduring support.