Fifteen years ago, a high school junior named Taylor Curtis stepped into a world that would change his life forever. At the time, Curtis was among the inaugural class of Chocolate University, a unique business and immersion program conceived by the innovative chocolatier Shawn Askinosie. Nestled in the heart of Springfield, Missouri, this program has transcended the simple act of making chocolate; it has become a pathway for young minds to explore entrepreneurship, global cultures, and ethical business practices, leaving a lasting impression on all who participate.
Curtis’s first journey with Chocolate University took him all the way to Tanzania, where he and his classmates spent time with the farmers who supply cocoa beans for the Askinosie Chocolate micro-factory. For Curtis, this trip was a transformative encounter that broadened his understanding of the world and instilled in him a sense of purpose. “There’s no way I could have predicted that 15 years later, I’d be returning to Africa with the 2025 class,” he reflected. “It feels like a full circle moment.”
This summer, Curtis will accompany the new class on their own journey to Tanzania, an experience that promises to be a defining chapter in their high school careers. Established with a mission to convey that small businesses can be a potent force for good, the Chocolate University program invites students to grasp the complexities of global interconnectedness, foster relationships with farmer partners, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for ethical business practices.
Chocolate University is an immersive venture into the heart of entrepreneurship aside form being an academic program. In collaboration with Drury University, the program selects a dedicated group of high school juniors and seniors from southwest Missouri, providing them with a unique curriculum that covers various aspects of the chocolate industry, from ethical sourcing to marketing strategies. This spring, the selected 15 students will dive into the intricate world of cocoa bean sourcing, entrepreneurship, and the critical importance of building relationships with farmers.
Out of the inaugural cohort of participants from Springfield, Chocolate University has expanded its reach. This year marks a milestone as students from as far as Washington, D.C., and Reeds Spring have been selected. With this growth comes increased diversity in perspectives and experiences, enriching the program’s educational environment.
One of this year's participants, Lance Rosebrough, a senior from Reeds Spring, has taken the initiative to learn Swahili in preparation for the trip. “I’m hoping to learn more about overseas communication and handling myself in unfamiliar situations,” he said. Rosebrough’s eagerness to embrace Tanzanian culture is commendable, as each trip not only widens horizons but also helps students appreciate the warmth and hospitality of their hosts.
An exciting facet of the Chocolate University experience is the collaborative projects students undertake while in Tanzania. Past groups have turned their attention to pressing community issues, such as sustainable soil practices and educational initiatives at farmer-led preschools. This year’s group is currently brainstorming their own projects, with conversations revolving around impactful solutions that can benefit the cocoa-growing community.
“The projects are all a work in progress right now,” Rosebrough shared. “We’re in the whiteboarding stage, getting our ideas down and figuring out how we can make a real difference.” This hands-on approach encourages students to become actively engaged in their learning, fostering skills in teamwork and problem-solving that are invaluable in today’s workforce.
Melissa Gelner, the executive director of Chocolate University, expressed her excitement about the upcoming trip, stating, “Each group of student travelers brings a different energy and perspective. They will explore their important role in driving meaningful change, equipping them with a global perspective and the tools to become leaders in their own communities.”
Taylor Curtis, reflecting on his previous experiences with Chocolate University, has found himself deeply inspired. Now serving on the board, he recognizes how the program provided him with opportunities to connect with students, local businesses, and Tanzanian farmers. “Chocolate University offered me the chance to witness the significant benefits of ethics-based business practices in action,” Curtis explained in a recent communication.
His journey through the program has shaped him into the corporate tax attorney he is today, enhancing his professional skills while also fostering a sense of responsibility toward community engagement. Curtis considers his participation a “galvanizing experience” that solidified his values, motivating him to give back and ensure that future students can experience the same profound impact.
The financial component of the Chocolate University trip places emphasis on accessibility. With a total cost of $5,000, students are responsible for only $500, thanks to funding from factory tours, chocolate sales, and contributions to the Askinosie Foundation. This financial model allows students from diverse economic backgrounds to participate, ensuring that the program remains inclusive.
The unique opportunity to learn about ethical business practices, cultural exchange, and community engagement is a privilege for a select few; a commitment by Shawn Askinosie and his team to ensure that the next generation of leaders emerges with a well-rounded worldview.
As the years have progressed, Askinosie has witnessed the evolution of the program and its participants. He notes that the students are becoming more self-aware, open, and engaged in their learning journey, which speaks volumes about the program’s influence. With plans for further expansion, Chocolate University aims to reach even more students beyond the initial eligibility zone, thus magnifying its impact.
The leaners are stepping into a legacy that promises to enrich their lives, empower their futures, and inspire them to make meaningful changes in their communities and beyond. This culmination of education, experience, and ethical consciousness sets the stage for a powerful narrative, one where small businesses can indeed be a force for good and where young minds can realize their potential amid the complexities of our interconnected world.
