Julie Purpura has spent more than half her life in hospitality and, as a proud Finger Lakes native, has followed her twin passions for education and wine for the past two decades. She first taught at Jefferson Community Collegeas Winery Program Coordinator and Instructor of Hospitality & Tourism, blending classroom learning with real-world industry insight and now proudly teaches at Rochester Institute of Technology. She is a Certified Sommelier through theCourt of Master Sommeliers, holds WSET Level 3, and is a Certified Specialist of Wine with theSociety of Wine Educators.Julieis known for her warm, approachable style and loves sharing stories that celebrate the people and passion behind the wine world, strengthened by her work withNew York Kitchenand multiple partners collaborations across NYS. Through Wine Knot Experiences, she brings people together to learn, laugh, and connect over great wine and meaningful experiences.