
Justine Burns
2025 Nominee
Best in EDUCATION
Culinary I & Food, Travel & Tourism Instructor
Lewiston Regional Technical Center
Professional Impact
Justine is a dedicated Culinary Arts educator at Lewiston Regional Technical Center, where she brings extensive expertise in hospitality and food service to students through The Green Ladle program. She mentors aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals, offering hands-on learning opportunities in restaurant service, catering, and event management. Beyond classroom instruction, Justine advises students in SkillsUSA competitions and guides them in operating the school-based food pantry at Edward Little High School, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and community engagement. Her commitment to fostering both skill development and personal growth makes her an inspiring figure in Career and Technical Education.
Personal Passions
Justine’s passion for culinary arts is matched by her love for family and cultural exploration. She is a proud mother of two daughters and eagerly anticipates the arrival of a baby boy, finding joy in nurturing her family alongside her career. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling, experiencing new cultures, and sharing culinary traditions with friends and loved ones. Hosting gatherings, exploring local restaurants, and celebrating food and culture are central to her personal fulfillment, reflecting the same warmth and mentorship she brings to her students.
Love for Androscoggin
Justine deeply values the Lewiston-Auburn community for its vibrant culture, arts, and culinary scene. She highlights downtown Lewiston as a hub for local shops, diverse restaurants, and cultural experiences that allow newcomers to connect with the area. She also champions the region’s farm-to-table offerings and local favorites, including Maine seafood and traditional desserts. Through her teaching, community projects, and mentorship, Justine strengthens the local culinary and educational landscape, fostering a spirit of connection, growth, and community pride throughout Androscoggin.