The American Academy of Chefs (AAC), the honor society of the American Culinary Federation (ACF), was organized in 1952 by the ACF Board of Directors. The Academy is a way for the ACF to recognize the achievements of its fellow culinarians. The leadership of the AAC is through the Chair and National Vice Chair, both of whom are elected by Academy fellows.

The Academy’s Mission

The goal of Academy fellows is to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism in the organization, society and industry. AAC fellows always promote education in this profession and support those efforts by passing on the skills, training and expertise they possess. AAC fellows are always accountable for presenting a positive image throughout the local, regional and national communities at events they attend and sponsor.

To obtain an official American Academy of Chefs application, an applicant must have his or her chapter president or other chapter officer request an application on the individual’s behalf from the AAC National Office. An applicant may not request his or her own application. Fellowship in the American Academy of Chefs shall be composed of ACF certified master chefs, certified master pastry chefs, certified executive chefs, certified executive pastry chefs and certified culinary educators of honorable character. These chefs must have a minimum of fifteen years culinary experience in which at least two years have been as a certified executive chef/pastry chef or certified culinary educator. The applicant must be an active member of the ACF.

Local/Regional & National AAC Activities

Fellows of the Academy should be leaders within their own chapters, spearheading the chapter’s activities.

Academy fellows should be willing to accept the role of foodservice advisor in local junior colleges or secondary school programs, as well as be willing to assist in regional Academy dinners, cooperating with sister chapters.

Academy fellows should be proud of their fellowship in the honor society of the American Culinary Federation and in their profession, and should always list certification and Academy fellowship designation after their name.

Academy fellows should strive to further the education of our young culinarians by utilizing programs such as the Sharing Culinary Traditions (SCT) Educational Program. The SCT is designed to pass on invaluable culinary skills and traditions, teach fundamentals of the profession, encourage high-quality work ethics and promote and foster professionalism.

For more information on this prestigious group, please go the www.acfchefs.org, and click on Programs and Initiatives.

Our AAC members are listed below.