Chef Denise, President Médaillon at the Grand Rapids Convention 2026
Dear ACF San Francisco Board Members and Members, I wanted to take a moment to share a summary of my experience attending the recent ACF National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and to thank everyone for the opportunity to represent our chapter.
The convention was a valuable few days of networking, education, professional development, and reconnecting with chefs and industry leaders from across the country. It was a strong reminder of why the American Culinary Federation matters — not only as a professional organization, but as a place where chefs, educators, students, competitors, and mentors come together to move the industry forward.
The opening days included networking opportunities, the Board of Governors meeting, educational sessions, and time on the vendor showroom floor. There were many conversations centered around chapter leadership, membership involvement, culinary education, competition, senior care, catering, and the future of the profession. I was especially encouraged by the energy around student engagement and the continued importance of mentorship within the ACF.
The main feature was seeing how other chapters are using national events to build visibility, support their members, and raise funds for their local programs. The Michigan chapter hosted a well-organized barbecue fundraiser that was nicely put together, supported by vendors, and handled with professionalism. It was a good example of how a chapter can create fellowship, raise money, and showcase hospitality at the same time.
The showroom floor also offered a chance to connect with vendors, explore new products, and gather ideas that could benefit our chapter, our members, and our local culinary community. From food products and equipment to creative presentations and educational opportunities, there was plenty to bring back and consider.
Another meaningful part of the convention was hearing from chefs and speakers who reminded us that it is never too late to grow, change direction, reconnect with purpose, or find new opportunities in this profession. Those conversations personally struck a chord with me. Sometimes in this industry, and even in leadership, it can feel like you are working alone. But conventions like this remind us that there are always others facing similar challenges, asking similar questions, and still pushing forward.
Overall, the convention reinforced the importance of showing up. Being present at the national and Chapter level matters. It gives our chapter a voice, keeps us connected to the larger organization, and allows us to bring information, ideas, and inspiration back home to San Francisco.
The highlight of this ACF National Convention was at our President's Award dinner, where we were excited to see Chef Denise Chapel receive the President Medallion, the highest honor from the ACF. This prestigious award is presented by the ACF National President to outstanding culinarians who exemplify culinary excellence, leadership, and a commitment to advancing our profession. Chef Denise has been a remarkable example of service to the ACF, demonstrating dedication through her years of hard work as the secretary for our San Francisco Chapter. Congratulations to her on this well-deserved recognition! Additionally, we had two Presidential Medallions awarded, which reflect our commitment to excellence. Please join me in congratulating Chef Denise on this significant achievement.
I left Grand Rapids with renewed energy and a better understanding of what is happening across the ACF nationally. There are opportunities for us to grow our involvement, strengthen our connections with students and educators, encourage competition, and continue building pride in our local chapter.
-Chef Philippe
