The Teresa Sokol Novak Scholarship   provides financial support to students attending the Washburne Culinary Institute who demonstrate a strong commitment to a career in food service. Applicants are judged on academic record, letters of recommendation and a personal interview.

The idea for the scholarship was born at a Washburne alumni association meeting that was held at Sokol. President & CEO John Novak, Jr. and Executive VP & COO Ralph Pirritano, who knew the outstanding reputation of the Washburne school, attended the meeting and were so impressed with the alumni organization that they decided Sokol should sponsor a scholarship. The award was named after Teresa Sokol Novak, grandmother of John Novak Jr., since she had served as an inspiration as the family business grew.