Anáhuac Cancún University Awards First Honorary Doctorate to Le Cordon Bleu CEO André J. Cointreau

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Anáhuac Cancún University has awarded its first-ever honorary doctorate to André J. Cointreau, president and CEO of the prestigious culinary institution Le Cordon Bleu, recognizing his global impact on gastronomy and hospitality education.

The ceremony took place at the university’s Lions Sports Center, attended by business, academic, and social leaders including Rafael Aguirre, Carlos and Noemí Constandse, Javier Carlos Olvera, Abelardo Vara, Miguel Ángel Lemus, Perla Flores Navarro, María Jovita Portillo, Emanuel Cyril, and Tony Chávez.

University Rector Dr. Yoani Paola Rodríguez Villegas highlighted the historic nature of the award, emphasizing its significance in honoring global contributions to educating new generations.

Cointreau has led Le Cordon Bleu’s expansion since 1984, transforming the Paris-founded institution into a network with over 35 schools in more than 20 countries, serving approximately 20,000 students annually. Under his leadership, the institution has broadened its focus beyond culinary training to include hospitality, management, entrepreneurship programs, and strategic partnerships with universities and industry leaders worldwide.

His vision has helped elevate culinary education standards and establish the field as a driver of innovation, development, and cultural promotion.

In Mexico, his impact is evident through the partnership with the Anáhuac University Network, established in 1998, which has strengthened international education for thousands of students in gastronomy and hospitality.

Upon receiving the distinction, Cointreau stated, “I see Anáhuac Cancún University as a great ally in bringing global education and gastronomy to the highest level.”

With this inaugural honorary doctorate, Anáhuac Cancún University begins a tradition of recognizing leaders whose work significantly contributes to societal development and positive international leadership.