Hampton Alum Spices up TV

Mix one-part hot reality television with a batch of spicy competition, then stir in a dash of Hampton University and blend with lots of sugar. Bake until golden brown. What do you get? Meet Kendra Jordan, a 2001 Hampton University (Quintessence IV) Alum competing for $50,000 on TLC’s newest series – “Cake Boss: The Next Great Baker.”

Set to air on Monday, Dec. 6 at 9/8c, the series will feature ten talented pastry chefs, unique in their backgrounds and experiences, but united in their passion for baking and decorating. Jordan, the self-described “Southern Belle” of the cast, says her Southern upbringing in the kitchen next to her mother is what has most prepared her for this challenge.

“I watched my mom and would always help during holidays,” she said. “My mom is actually a baker and we love to eat.”

The lessons from Jordan’s mother aren’t the only motivation she had to apply for the show. According to Jordan, the opportunity to showcase her talent came right in the midst of a hardship. After a difficult break-up, she decided that picking up a hobby might be a good way to help her cope.

“I was extremely depressed,” she said. “Because of my background in baking and love for shows like ‘Ace of Cakes,’ I took a class in cake decorating and I fell in love.”

With a renewed passion for baking, Jordan says everything began to fall into place. After hearing about the TLC casting call, Jordan applied and sent in a picture of her cakes. After a long process of video interviews and personal interviews, Jordan was finally selected as a contestant.

“I was in shock when they called,” Jordan said. “It really felt like destiny.

As a sixth grade English teacher from a small town, many were surprised at her decision to be a part of the show. But overall, she says she’s received an overwhelming amount of support. It’s this support that Jordan says has motivated her to really give her all.

In retrospect, Jordan says that this show has been a spiritual journey. Now that the show has finished filming, she is excited to share the ride with others.

“I’ve been so blessed,” she said. “All I wanted was for someone to open the door and it’s been an awesome ride. I’ve learned to enjoy life and really be true to myself. I hope that anyone that sees the show will be inspired to follow their dreams.”

“Cake Boss: The Next Great Baker” will premiere on Monday, Dec. 6 at 9/8c on TLC.

- Jess Moore