14th Annual Chili Cook-Off Draws Largest Crowd Yet

DCTC Rotaract Club holds popular annual event

Rotaract Club at Dakota County Technical College held the 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off Thursday, April 17, 2025, in the main commons next to the Student Life Center on the college’s campus in Rosemount, Minnesota.

Brett Kolles

The DCTC Community, including faculty and staff, contributed 35 chili recipes for the annual competition. Brett Kolles, English faculty and Rotaract faculty co-advisor, reported that the event raised $1,100 with $550 going to The Open Door Pantry. The remainder will support Rotaract Club’s monthly community-involvement activities, including volunteering at Feed My Starving Children, Habitat for Humanity, Second Harvest, and Loaves & Fishes, to name a few.

“Thank you for your generous chili contributions for this year’s Chili Cook-Off!” Brett said. “It is so greatly appreciated. Any leftover chili was packaged in Tupperware containers and placed in the Mobile Pantry freezer at DCTC for the benefit of students in need—frankly, there was some, but not a lot to donate. We enjoyed a record turnout—more than three hundred students, staff, faculty, and guests!”

Brett noted that U.S. Representative Angie Craig and Rosemount Mayor Jeff Weisensel were among the attendees. Harold Torrence, EdD, Business Management faculty at the college, provided music for the event.

“So many contributors to thank!” Brett added. “Students who volunteered their time, staff and faculty who provided chili and brought their students to the event, Harold Torrence who imbued an atmosphere of fun and relaxation, and the local leaders who supported the event. Congratulations to all!”

Top chili recipe entries were determined by popular vote. Jesse Boots and his entry, “Campfire Candy,” took first place by wide margin. Michael Kolles and his entry, “Gyro Chili,” took second place by one vote. As the top finishers, Jesse and Michael will each receive a customized Chili Cook-Off apron designed by the ever-talented Sue Kolles.