Kerri Lynch-Delaney

By Abigail Koch

Kerri Lynch-Delaney of  North Quincy High School's class of 1996, is a well know Quincy, MA native. Lynch-Delaney is the former owner of Baby Cakes cupcake shop, and current owner of the trendy, upscale restaurant 16C both located in Quincy. Lynch-Delaney is no stranger to the restaurant world previously working as a waitress, pastry chef, and manager of a restaurant. Lynch-Delaney opened 16C in April of 2016, and it has taken on a life of its own with sheets of exquisite pizza, Quiet Man steak tips, and decadent desserts.

After attending NQHS Kerri attended The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts to further her education and experience in the culinary world. Kerri has always had a passion for working in the food world. While attending NQHS, Kerri was fortunate enough to have a work study, being employed at O'Brien's bakery. Kerri stated, “ Work study was very helpful and I was very fortunate to have that opportunity.”

I had the opportunity to sit down with Kerri and ask her about her experiences at NQHS and if they have had an impact on how she got where she is today. When asked if her experiences in high school were an important part of her life she responded with, “Yes! I loved school, the people, teachers, and the social aspect. I have been friends with my high school friends even after graduating.” Kerri also discussed how she was not always the strongest student but that the teachers at North were always so supportive of her. “None of my teachers ever gave up on me and still support me today by supporting my business.” She explained how special that is to her, still being able to connect with the people who helped pave the way for her success. Her teachers never gave up on her and believed in her instilling the confidence she needed to follow her dreams.

Kerri was always interested in working, and often put that first. She played softball at North her freshmen year and said “ I was not the greatest”, realizing working at the bakery was her thing. Kerri talked about how North has given her many fond memories that she still remembers today. One of her favorites was being able to hangout and get to know the students in the Learning Center.

It is safe to say Kerri Lynch-Delaney has had many successes in her life, and she credits a lot of it to her experience at North Quincy High. Kerri wanted to leave current NQHS students with some advice. “It is the most fun fours years, such a good time. The problems you will have in high school are minuscule in your future. Lastly, don’t stress about what you are going to do in your future because you will never really know.”

Kerri Lynch- Delaney former owner of babycakes. Photo courtesy of Gary Higgins/ Patriot Ledger.