Meet Shaye Bowser

Shaye Bowser, an accomplished pastry chef and proud Reynolds Community College alumna, has built a remarkable career fueled by her passion for the culinary arts. Her journey to success, however, wasn’t straightforward—it was shaped by challenges and a steadfast love for creating delectable treats.

From an early age, Shaye found joy in the kitchen, where food symbolized connection and celebration. She honed her skills in high school, earning certification as an entry-level chef. After enrolling at Johnson & Wales University, she withdrew after her grandfather’s passing, struggling with grief and depression. Baking became her solace, a creative outlet during difficult times. In 2009, she moved to Virginia for a fresh start. The birth of her son in 2013 reignited her dreams, pushing her to refine her skills. After years of hesitation, she realized there was no perfect time and took a leap of faith.

Shaye enrolled in the Pastry Arts program at Reynolds, a decision she describes as life-changing. The affordability, convenient location, and accelerated curriculum made it the ideal fit. The program allowed her to balance her studies with her responsibilities as a mother, giving her the tools to transform her passion into a fulfilling career.

At Reynolds, Shaye thrived. The program at The Kitchens at Reynolds emphasized hands-on learning, covering a broad spectrum of pastry techniques, from classic fundamentals to modern trends. Shaye immersed herself in every class, soaking up knowledge from her instructors and peers. She recalls the supportive environment and camaraderie among her classmates as highlights of her experience.

“Chef Miller truly puts a lot of time and effort into making sure the program makes sense and prepares us for success,” Shaye shares. Each instructor left a lasting impression on her. From Chef Parkinson-Miller, she learned the importance of patience, troubleshooting, and embracing her spirited personality in the kitchen. Chef Savi emphasized the value of service alongside technical skills, while Chef Miller taught her critical culinary thinking. “Their passion for the craft is contagious,” she says.

The practical aspects of the program, including internships and real-world experiences, were instrumental in building her confidence. Shaye fondly recalls moments like the wedding cakes class, where students showcased their creations to family and friends. Having her son present during these milestones reinforced her motivation and reminded her of the importance of hard work and dedication.

Shaye attributes her success to a combination of passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. She emphasizes the importance of taking full advantage of resources, seeking feedback, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. “Make the mistakes!” she advises current students. “Be present, volunteer, and take your internship seriously. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn.”

For those considering Reynolds, Shaye offers encouragement: “Reynolds was the perfect place to start my pastry arts journey. The program is designed to set you up for success, but you must be prepared to work hard. The support from instructors and peers makes all the difference.”

Today, Shaye continues to build on the foundation she gained at Reynolds. She stays in touch with her instructors, who remain invaluable resources in her career. Looking back, she is grateful for the role Reynolds played in shaping her professional path. “Reynolds gave me the tools, but continuous practice and dedication helped me grow.”

Shaye is now a pastry chef at The Underground Kitchen, a culinary experience celebrating African American heritage through food. UGK hosts exclusive, chef-led pop-up dinners featuring world-class wine pairings, local ingredients, and secret locations.

Shaye says, “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be the pastry chef for the Underground Kitchen Community. It’s an honor to bring my creativity to such a dynamic and diverse space. This experience has been both inspiring and fulfilling.”

Shaye’s story is a testament to following one’s passion. She encourages anyone with a love for pastry arts to take the leap, assuring them it’s a decision they won’t regret. “If you’re passionate about pastry arts or even just curious, don’t hesitate—start your journey.”

Through determination and a deep love for her craft, Shaye has turned her passion into a thriving career, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with courage and commitment.

For more about the Pastry Arts Program at Reynolds, visit our website.