Deep Ocean

Deep Ocean is a scholarship that takes its name from the loaded Chicago-style pizza it celebrates. The award is built around a thick crust pizza packed with shrimp, calamari, crab, veggies, and tartar sauce. It is a deep and delicious combination, and the scholarship carries that same spirit of abundance. The scholarship is for students who appreciate the craft of food, the culture of Chicago-style dining, and the creativity that goes into building a memorable meal. It is open to those who can connect their academic or personal goals to the world of culinary arts, food service, hospitality, or food culture. The award recognizes that food is more than fuel. It is tradition, identity, and community. Chicago-style pizza is a regional icon. The deep-dish pie was born in Chicago in the 1940s, and it has since become a symbol of the city's bold, no-nonsense character. A true Chicago-style pizza is baked in a high-sided pan, with the crust forming a thick bowl that holds layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce. The version celebrated here adds seafood and a tartar sauce twist, making it a distinctive take on a classic. Winning this scholarship means joining a community that values flavor, hard work, and the stories behind the food we eat. It is for students who are curious about where their food comes from, who want to build careers in food-related fields, or who simply understand that a great meal can change the way you see the world.