News Summary

Vera Stewart, founder of VeryVera, will deliver the keynote speech at Augusta University’s commencement on May 9. Her journey as a female entrepreneur and passion for food will inspire graduates to pursue their goals with resilience and dedication. Stewart’s successful mail-order business has garnered national recognition, serving customers coast to coast and attracting attention from notable figures. Her address will emphasize the importance of hard work and the connections made through sharing meals.

Augusta, Georgia –

Vera Stewart, founder of the successful company VeryVera, is set to deliver the keynote address at Augusta University’s commencement ceremony on May 9, inspiring graduates with her journey of female entrepreneurship and dedication to bringing people together through food.

Stewart’s innovative enterprise, which began as a small catering service, has blossomed over the last 40 years into a flourishing mail-order business specializing in cakes and casseroles. VeryVera has gained national recognition, serving customers across the country and attracting the attention of high-profile figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Martha Stewart, and Bobby Flay.

At the heart of Stewart’s mission is the belief that homemade meals are a way to connect with family and friends, a notion that will be central to her address to the graduates.

Personal Journey and Principles

Stewart’s journey to success is rooted in a challenging upbringing. Raised by her mother, a schoolteacher who single-handedly raised five children after their father’s untimely death at the age of 40, Stewart credits her culinary skills and solid work ethic to her mother’s insistence on the importance of family meals and special occasions.

As a child, Stewart observed her mother’s meticulous preparation for gatherings, often setting beautiful tables with family silverware, which left a lasting impact on her appreciation for the role of food in bringing people together.

Educational Foundation and Career Development

Stewart graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in home economics education and taught the subject for four years before launching her catering business. A significant breakthrough in her career came when she secured an inaugural luncheon for then-Georgia Governor Joe Frank Harris, which cemented her position in the culinary world.

VeryVera officially opened its doors in 1984, named in honor of her grandmother. Over the years, Stewart expanded her influence beyond catering, becoming a cooking show host and author of two cookbooks that emphasize special occasions and seasonal recipes, underscoring the importance of celebrating life’s moments through food.

Persistence and Success

Stewart’s path to success was marked by determination and resilience. It took her 10 years to secure an endorsement from Oprah and an additional three years to appear on the Food Network. She persevered despite challenges, even tirelessly campaigning to have her show, The VeryVera Show, aired in her desired market of Birmingham, Alabama, known for its vibrant food culture. Now in its 14th season, the show is broadcast across 71 metropolitan markets nationwide.

Message for Graduates

In her commencement address, Stewart aims to convey essential lessons about hard work and persistence. She encourages graduates to strive towards their goals with tenacity and to maintain enthusiasm even in the face of adversity. Stewart’s philosophy of taking pride in one’s work and continuous improvement resonates with her own journey and achievements.

Through her success, Stewart exemplifies the power of resilience and dedication, making her a fitting mentor for the new generation of graduates stepping into their careers. As she prepares to inspire the Class of 2023 at Augusta University, her story serves as a testament to the importance of following one’s passion and cherishing the bonds created through the act of sharing food.

Vera Stewart to Keynote Augusta University Commencement

News Summary

Augusta, Georgia –

Personal Journey and Principles

Educational Foundation and Career Development

Persistence and Success

Message for Graduates

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