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Grad Ward Wins on The Food Network’s “Cake Wars”

“I took the knowledge [I gained at The Art Institute of Dallas] and formed it into a career that I enjoy waking up to every day.”

A. Nicole Ward is becoming a familiar face on The Food Network, winning on two of the network’s programs—“Cake Wars” and “Cupcake Wars.” In 2016, she won “Cake Wars’ Happy Birthday Hippopotamus Style” episode, in which she wowed the judges with a white vanilla bean cake with balsamic strawberry and mascarpone filling. As the winner, she took home a $10,000 prize.

Nicole also came out on top in “Cupcake Wars” in 2013. “I’m still pinching myself. I enjoy challenging myself with new recipes and cake ideas. I love meeting people who have the same passion I do. I just love to talk about food and cake.”

Nicole is the co-owner of Sinsational Cakes Bakery in North Richland Hills, Texas. She manages four employees, as well as front and back of house operations. She takes pride in providing customers with excellent customer service and desserts. Nicole’s workday begins early, with a 5:30 am wake up call. She is at the bakery until at least 6:30 every evening. “I love creating and experimenting with new recipes,” she says.

Nicole, who in 2002 earned an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts from The Art Institute of Dallas, says that her education provided the foundation she needed to become successful in culinary arts. “I took the knowledge and formed it into a career that I enjoy waking up to every day.” She recommends that current students understand the value of “owning their education.” And she adds that culinary arts is a profession that requires long hours. “Be passionate about what you’re doing; if not, you can’t give it 100%.”

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