Duff Goldman, star of the Food Network show “Ace of Cakes”, will be speaking on Auburn’s campus on Tuesday, March 8. Goldman will speak about his experiences with the bakery and the hit show at 7 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.


Students are encouraged to attend, as Goldman will be answering questions from the audience.

“The event will be of interest to everyone, even those who are not familiar with the show,” says Aaron Grubbs, assistant director of University Program Council (UPC) Speakers and Comedians Committee. “Even if you aren't interested in a career involving cooking or baking, the event will still be entertaining and insightful!”

Several students have already marked the UPC event on their calendars.

“I am definitely looking forward to Duff’s visit,” says Auburn student Lisa Reynolds. “I love to bake and would like the opportunity to hear some great tips that he uses in his bakery, Charm City Cakes.”

Charm City Cakes is located in Baltimore, Md., where Goldman and his team of artists create up to 20 cakes a week. With some of the cakes taking up to 29 hours to build, his craft has made him one of the most sought-after cake makers in the country.

In order to acquire Goldman as a speaker, the director and assistant directors went through a selection process.

“We sit down as a committee and brainstorm ideas of both speakers and comedians that we think the Auburn students would be most likely to come see,” says Grubbs.

The UPC staff then explore these options, make calls to agents and eventually narrow down the list according to price, availability, and interest they believe the students would show in the event, according to Grubbs.

Many Auburn students watch “Ace of Cakes” and are intrigued by Goldman and his impressive cakes. This helped the committee come to a decision and choose him as the next speaker. A large crowd is expected to attend.

“It is very inspiring to see how elaborate or simple cakes can be and the way people can express themselves through the art of baking,” says Reynolds.

Even though this is Grubbs fourth year being a part of UPC, his position as assistant director this year “has been really exciting because this is the first chance I've had to plan an event.”

Along with the rest of the committee, Grubbs is looking forward to seeing students enjoy Goldman as he speaks about his experiences with his bakery.

“For me, the most rewarding part is seeing your ideas grow into something that the Auburn students get excited about,” says Grubbs. “Being a part of UPC has been a great way for me to give back the Auburn students.”

Other upcoming UPC events include the '80s Prom on March 4 at 7 p.m. in the student center ballroom and the “True Grit” screening on March 24th at 7 p.m. in Haley 2370.

All UPC events are free and open to Auburn students.

“Everyone should come,” says Grubbs. “It’s going to be a great time!”