Kumar is perhaps best known in Fort Madison and southeast Iowa for his culinary expertise. He believes serving area youth in need of education assistance by providing them with a safe learning environment. Kumar also believes in empowering educators who are passionate about teaching to go above and beyond in helping students prepare for the future.Kumar arrived in the United States in 1986 from his native country of Sri Lanka. He was fortunate to meet George and Jean Alton, both teachers in the Fort Madison Community School District. The couple invited Kumar to share their home and gave him an opportunity to pursue higher education. With their love and passion for learning, he was able to get the education he needed, which enabled Kumar to fulfill his American dream of becoming the owner of a well-known local restaurant and later to become a leader in a successful statewide healthcare organization.To show his gratitude for the opportunities provided to him in Fort Madison, he wants to “pay it forward” by giving back to this community which he loves and treasures. Making the vision a reality in rural Iowa towns begins with the creation of the Test Kitchen Education Foundation and opening of the very first Elliott Test Kitchen in Fort Madison, Iowa. An investment in our youth is the best investment for the future.