Minor’s:  Trusted by ChefsDr. L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award

The national Dr. L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award is presented to the chef who exemplifies the highest standard of professionalism through certification, continuing education and training, culinary competitions and community involvement. It honors culinarians who help elevate the status of chefs and cooks in the United States.

2026 Award

Applications for the 2026 Dr. L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award are now being accepted. Deadline for all applications is January 31, 2026. Award recipients will be announced during the 2026 ACF National Convention.

2025 National Winner

  • Jay Ziobrowski, CEC

2025 Regional Winners

Kevin Penn

Central Region Winner

Kevin L. Penn, CEC, CCA

Kevin Doherty

Northeast Region Winner

Kevin C. Doherty, CEC, CCA, AAC

Jay Ziobrowski

Southeast Region Winner

Jay Ziobrowski, CEC

Jay Rathmann

Western Region Winner

Jay Rathmann, CEC, CCA

Previous Winners