ACF Hermann G. Rusch Chef’s Achievement Award
This award, formerly the Hermann G. Rusch Humanitarian Award, honors chefs who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to both ACF and the culinary profession. Such chefs, through their involvement with and contributions to ACF and our craft, have advanced the culinary profession and ensured the enrichment of students, our members and those in the profession. Candidates are worthy of carrying on the proud tradition of the chef for whom this award was named, Hermann G. Rusch, AAC (1907–1997).
2026 Award
Applications for the 2026 Hermann G. Rusch Chef’s Achievement 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
- Rajeev Patgaonkar, CEC, AAC