Ruffy Sulaiman

Ruffy Sulaiman, a culinary artist with African roots, has crafted a remarkable career. Raised in a family of restaurateurs, his passion for food was ignited early on. As one of the founding members of the Hilton Americas Hotel, he played a pivotal role in its grand opening, just two months before the historic 2004 Super Bowl. The hotel's record-breaking feat of serving over 10,000 guests in a single day is a testament to his leadership.

Houston Community College further shaped his journey. The diverse student body, including a large Nigerian population, provided a sense of belonging. Despite the challenges, Ruffy persevered, working as a cook to fund his education. HCC instilled in him a commitment to giving back, and he continues to inspire aspiring chefs.

Ruffy's advice to future culinary students encapsulates his belief in HCC's transformative power: "Go to HCC. That is a school where you can get the education, and you don't have to be indebted for the rest of your life."