Khalia Spivey: NCCU IT Director Shines as Award-Winning Baker at NC State Fair

DURHAM, NC – Khalia Spivey, the director of information technology at North Carolina Central University’s (NCCU) School of Law, has a passion that extends far beyond her day job. An award-winning baker, Spivey has turned a cherished family tradition into a winning streak at the North Carolina State Fair.

Baking runs in Spivey’s blood. She learned her craft from her mother, a professional chef, and her late grandmother, both of whom passed down their love for the kitchen. “My mom had a catering business,” Spivey recalls. “I learned baking from her and my grandmother. Most of the women in my family bake, so it just became part of who I am.”

Spivey’s journey into competitive baking began in 2016 when a friend urged her to enter the North Carolina State Fair Baking Competition. What started as a friendly challenge quickly became an annual tradition, and she has since won 14 ribbons — including four first-place finishes — with creations ranging from chocolate pound cake to lemon zucchini bread.

“My friend kept bugging me to enter the fair, so I finally said, ‘OK, girl, I’ll do it,'” Spivey laughs. “Now, it’s this little competition between us every year.”

Preparing for the fair is a months-long process for Spivey. She draws inspiration from classic recipes and isn’t afraid to experiment with new ideas. Her colleagues at NCCU often serve as her taste testers, eagerly awaiting her latest creations. “Oh, they know all about my baking,” she says, laughing. “They’re always waiting for me to bring in something new.”

This year, Spivey’s standout entries included a pecan bread that took first place and a unique beet bread that earned second. “I always try to do something unexpected,” she says. “Who thinks about beets in bread?”

One of her proudest moments came in 2019 with a coconut cake she perfected over years of competition. “That one was special because it was part of the back-and-forth competition with my friend. Every year, I tried to add something new—like coconut milk or toasted coconut for a richer flavor. It was a labor of love.”

For Spivey, baking is not just about the competition; it’s a way to unwind. “Baking is my mental health thing,” she shares. “It’s my break from the stress—just me, my baked goods, and my music. It’s how I unwind.”

Reflecting on her success, she emphasizes the importance of passion. “There was one year I didn’t win anything, but I wasn’t in the right space. When I’m fully present, that’s when I shine.”

Her advice for aspiring fair competitors? “Go to the fair, see what’s already there, and choose categories with fewer entries. And if your family loves something, make that—but remember, the judges might not love it as much.”

The North Carolina State Fair, managed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, has been a showcase for local talent since 1853, with categories ranging from baking to arts and gardening. Spivey has made it her tradition to be there on the first day, eager to see the results and enjoy the festivities. “It’s a tradition now—me and my friend, walking around, seeing who won, and just enjoying the day,” she says with a smile.

The 2024 N.C. State Fair runs from October 17 to 27. More details can be found here.