We had 6 chefs bring chilis and 51 tasting judges cast their votes. It was a great turnout – we had two full rooms, and a line out the door! 

With the event happening in the later afternoon, rather than during lunch like it’s been in the past, the staff who support the therapeutic programs in the 2400 building were able to attend, and we were excited to see so many of them there that day!  

2026 Champion = Deanna Fontijn, Cream of the Crop (ECE) 
2025 Champion (passed along trophy) = Serena Decator 

Thank you to all the chefs for their savory chili creations! 

  • Smoky Red Chili – Serena Decator (SASS)  Runner Up
  • (Seriously) Spicy Southwest Chili – Mariusz Bista (SASS) 
  • Snowmageddon – Tyler Reed (IT) 
  • Gobble-licious Chili – Laura Knox (T&L) 
  • Southwest Velvet – Amber Kennedy (ESIT) 

Chili Cook Off Event Feedback Survey

The Connects team would love your feedback on this event! Please take 2 minutes to complete the Chili Cook Off Event Feedback Survey, whether you were able to attend this year or not (that's actually one of our questions). Your input is very important to us. We want to know what you think of Connects events, so we can continue to improve them based on staff feedback. Thank you so much!