By Logan Barnes, OCSA Junior
My 11th grade year at Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) has really gone quickly in the best way. I’m incredibly honored to have been selected to represent the Mekjian Family Culinary Arts & Hospitality Conservatory at the 2025 OCSA Gala. When our amazing Director, Chef Mattos, recommended me as a top student in the program, I was already beyond grateful. But to be chosen after several rounds of review to showcase my work and passion at one of the school’s biggest events of the year? That was something truly special!
I’ve been part of the culinary program at OCSA for three years, but my love for cooking, and community service started much earlier. Before I was even a teenager, I was volunteering at local soup kitchens and orgs that helped get homeless of the streets. Whether I’m in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes or thinking about how food connects people, I love what I’m doing and happy I’ve found my path early on.
Outside of school, I’ve also been lucky enough to work summers and help out with small projects at Montage Legal Group, where my mom, Jennifer Barnes, is CFO. Montage is a community of incredible women who are always looking for ways to give back. Montage is passionate about giving back and has been a committed donor and supporter of OCSA for the past several years.
One of my favorite moments from the Gala was seeing Erin Giglia, Montage’s co-founder and owner, in the crowd supporting our school. Erin’s son is an OCSA alum, so she understands how special this place is, and she continues to show up for the Gala and events at OCSA. It meant a lot to me to see her there, not just as a professional connection, but as someone who really cares about students like me and the future of this community.
Being featured in the Gala video and on social media was amazing, but the real highlight was feeling like I was part of something bigger, a family of people who believe in lifting each other up. I’m proud to be part of the OCSA family, and just as proud to be connected to the Montage Legal Group family, where giving back is a way of life. Erin Giglia, co-founder of Montage Legal Group, states:
Watching Logan represent OCSA at the Gala was incredibly inspiring. He’s the kind of student who makes a lasting impression—hardworking, kind, and passionate about giving back. OCSA has always held a special place in my heart, and supporting students like Logan is a privilege.
Check out my video below from the event. Here’s to many more nights of good food, great people, and communities that care!
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