Introducing Varsity Brews: Celebrating Diversity in Craft Beer
BreweriesNearMe.us is thrilled to announce a new series, “Varsity Brews,” where every two months, we will spotlight an exceptional individual awarded a scholarship through the Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling (MJF). This series reflects our commitment to elevating diverse voices within the craft beer community.
What is the Michael James Jackson Foundation?
The MJF, named after the legendary beer and whiskey writer Michael James Jackson, is dedicated to fostering a more diverse and equitable craft beer industry. By offering scholarships to underrepresented communities, the MJF empowers People of Color with the education needed to thrive in brewing and distilling. Garrett Oliver, MJF’s founder and a seasoned Brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, emphasizes the foundation’s mission to dismantle systemic barriers and provide essential opportunities to those traditionally excluded.
Since its inception in 2020, the foundation has already sponsored educational journeys for fifty talented individuals eager to make their mark in the industry. Scholarships from the MJF cover significant expenses, removing financial barriers and ensuring recipients can focus on furthering their craft and career.
Meet Fast Fashion’s Head Brewer, Stefano Annicchiarico
Stefano Annicchiarico, a proud recipient of the Sir Geoff Palmer Scholarship for Brewing, is a remarkable talent in the craft beer scene. Originally from El Salvador, Annicchiarico’s passion for brewing began in college at Florida International University. Despite never formally enrolling, he was invited by the faculty to explore and experiment in the brewing lab, nurturing a love for the craft.
His journey took him back to El Salvador for a pivotal internship at La Constancia, the country’s national brewery. Upon returning to the U.S., he shifted his focus from finance to brewing, eventually gaining a robust education at the Siebel Institute in Chicago. Annicchiarico’s career includes notable stints at Firestone Walker, Moonlight, and now as Head Brewer at Fast Fashion, known for its inventive and constantly evolving beer selections.
An Insightful Conversation with Stefano Annicchiarico
Annicchiarico’s brewing career is a testament to resilience and passion. We caught up with him to learn about his path, challenges, and triumphs. As a Latino brewer in an industry predominantly composed of white peers, he emphasizes the importance of community and networking, perspectives enriched by his scholarship from the MJF.
Annicchiarico is excited to deepen his technical knowledge through the Brewery Maintenance System course, courtesy of the MJF. The scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also fosters essential industry connections, proving that craft brewing is more than a profession—it’s a community-driven passion.
16 Questions with Stefano Annicchiarico
Grace Lee-Weitz sits down with Stefano to discuss his early days of homebrewing at FIU, his transformative experiences at renowned breweries, and the importance of mentorship and learning in the craft beer world. Annicchiarico also shares insights about navigating the industry as a minority and the hope that initiatives like the MJF inspire others to pursue their brewing dreams fervently.
Through his stories, Annicchiarico reminds us of the unifying spirit of craft beer and the profound impact of foundations that support diversity and inclusion. His journey with the MJF is a shining example of beer as a conduit for community and growth.
For those exploring the vibrant world of U.S. craft beer, BreweriesNearMe.us is your go-to guide for discovering local breweries, unique taprooms, and the dynamic culture of American brewing.
#CraftBeerCommunity #BrewingDiversity #LocalBreweries #Microbreweries #BeerCulture
