South Western Career Academy (SWCA) Culinary and Hospitality Arts students Mareli Cruz and Ashley Gonzalez took home top honors at the ProStart Burger Battle, hosted by the Hospitality Institute of Ohio on October 28, 2025, at the Delaware County Fairgrounds.
Their innovative burger creation impressed more than 40 industry judges from across the state, all of whom volunteered their expertise to mentor and evaluate the next generation of Ohio’s hospitality professionals.
“It feels amazing,” said Cruz. “We didn’t expect to win – we were shocked. We waited two hours for results, and when they announced that it would be back-to-back winners from our school, we couldn’t believe it. It’s an incredible feeling to bring another win home for our team and school. Hopefully next year we can make it three in a row.”
The Burger Battle was one of several competitive events held during the day. By the numbers, this year’s showcase included 35 Burger Battle teams, 22 Creative Cakes Décor entries, and 25 Creative Cakes Baker’s Edition.
“I’m very proud,” said Gonzalez Bernardo. “I honestly thought we’d get second or third because the other teams were strong, some with seven to ten members. When they called our team from South Western Career Academy, I was shocked and thrilled. I couldn’t wait to tell my mom — she’d seen all the work and even the finger cut I got during practice. Bringing home that trophy made it worth it.”
About the Award Winning Burger
The award winning burger entitled “Pineapple Express” is a custom creation predicated upon pineapples with a Cajun twist.
“Our burger is called the Pineapple Express,” said Gonzalez Bernardo. “It’s served on a brioche bun with pineapple aioli, romaine lettuce, a six-pepper-seasoned patty, caramelized pineapple with brown sugar, maple syrup, and Cajun spice. We top it with jalapeño salsa, Dijon chips, more aioli, and the top bun.”
Cruz and Gonzalez’s victory, again, marks the second consecutive year that South Western Career Academy students have claimed the top prize in the statewide Burger Battle — a testament to the program’s ongoing excellence in culinary arts education.
As part of their award, the duo’s winning burger will be professionally filmed at the Ohio Beef Council, highlighting their culinary creativity and technical skill for a wider audience.
Be on the lookout in the Academy Grill’s upcoming Winter Menu for this new offering to try it for yourself!
SW Insider 