This past week, UC Merced had the honor of hosting Dr. Claudia Serrato, an Indigenous culinary anthropologist and chef, as part of our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Dr. Serrato’s visit brought with it a deep sense of connection to food, culture, and heritage. Her presentation on Indigenous Culinary Heritage left a lasting impression on everyone who attended, sparking conversations about the significance of food in preserving and celebrating cultural identity.
At the heart of this incredible event was the collaboration of UC Merced Dining and Hospitality Services, the event coordination, led by Executive Sous Chef Jonathan Gutierrez Santiago, and our culinary team. They worked tirelessly to bring Dr. Serrato’s recipes to life, ensuring that the meal was not only delicious but true to her vision. Chef Jonathan and the team deserve immense credit for their dedication and artistry in preparing these dishes. From the rich flavors to the thoughtful presentation, they elevated the event and made it a truly memorable experience for our guests.
As a special treat and surprise, UC Merced’s Ballet Folklorico blessed us with a beautiful and vibrant performance. Their graceful movements and traditional dances filled the room with energy, adding an unexpected layer of cultural richness to the evening. It was a stunning tribute to the fusion of art, culture, and food, making the night even more magical.
Two days after the event, I attended another gathering on campus and ran into a guest who had attended Dr. Serrato’s dinner. She shared with me how impactful the event had been for her and her friends. She couldn’t stop raving about the food, saying how it transported her and others to a deeper understanding of the Indigenous roots behind the dishes. Hearing this feedback was incredibly rewarding—it reaffirmed the power of food to create meaningful connections and lasting memories.
What made this experience even more special is Dr. Serrato’s generosity. She has graciously allowed UC Merced Dining to offer her signature recipes on a regular basis, bringing a unique and important culinary perspective to our daily offerings. This not only enriches the diversity of our menu but also continues the important conversation about food heritage and sustainability that Dr. Serrato so passionately advocates for.
We are especially grateful to our sponsor, UC Merced’s Division of Equity, Justice, and Inclusive Excellence, whose support made this event possible. Without their partnership, we would not have been able to host such a culturally significant and impactful evening.
I am grateful for everyone who made this event a success, from our hard-working culinary team to the supportive staff at UC Merced Hospitality Services. And of course, to Dr. Serrato, for sharing her knowledge, her recipes, and her heart with our community. Her visit was a reminder of how powerful food can be—not just as sustenance, but as a vehicle for preserving culture, telling stories, and bringing people together.
Culinary Connections 