By Josephine Scalia

Do you know which fork is for salad? Are you aware that there is a wrong way to pass the salt and pepper? And have you considered what is the best food to order when on an interview? These are just a few of the questions answered in the interactive Etiquette Dinner workshop sponsored by the Women’s Leadership Conference Fund held earlier this semester, one of three such workshops offered this academic year. 

Interested Adelphi students, faculty, staff and alumni had the opportunity to learn “how to confidently navigate complex table settings along with techniques for appropriate and engaging dinner conversations” according to the event webpage.

This most recent workshop was facilitated by Elizabeth Schwind who currently works in healthcare but also has a background in event planning and coordination. She often visits various colleges across Long Island to give lessons in dining etiquette.  

As Adelphi students prepare to enter the work force, many must learn the more minute details of conducting oneself in a professional manner and setting. The dining workshops served as welcoming and engaging environments where questions were welcomed.

Attendees were encouraged to wear business attire to fully immerse themselves in the professional learning experience. 

As the participants ate and asked questions, Schwind guided the attendees through the ins and outs of proper etiquette for each course, raising multiple real world examples and scenarios and suggesting acceptable ways to navigate each situation. The workshop consisted of a four course meal starting with a house salad, followed by penne alla vodka, an entrée of lemon chicken with roasted vegetables and a slice of apple pie and fresh fruit for dessert. 

Feedback for the event was overwhelmingly positive. Recent Adelphi alum Yovica Valentin said, “Overall it was great. The instructors were great–very informative, very sweet as well. I had a good time.”

Senior Economics and Political Science major Shota Mikautadze said, “I really enjoyed this etiquette dinner. I got a lot of insights; amazing event.”

Mikautadze was grateful for the opportunity to “network in a friendly environment.” 

Reflecting on her experience participating in the workshop, International Relations major Elizavetta Keburia said, “I learned a lot of small tricks and etiquette rules, and I would definitely recommend that other Adelphi students come here as well.”

If you missed this year’s workshops, do not fret. They will be returning in the Fall 2026 semester.