The Nominating Process

The African American Chefs Hall of Fame recognizes a select group of visionaries, leaders, and luminaries who have made significant contributions to the development and advancement of the American Cuisine.

Individuals who have played a significant role in the conceptualization, building, and development of the American Cuisine in any region of the country are considered for induction into one of two categories. In addition to those who have been more visible, the African American Chefs Hall of Fame seeks nominees who have made crucial, behind-the-scenes contributions. Criteria for evaluation include:

Impact: The contribution has significantly impacted the development or growth of American Cuisine and continues to demonstrate relevance to the American Cuisine ‘s ongoing advancement and evolution.

Influence: The contribution, relative to the American Cuisine, has significantly influenced: 1) the work of others in the field; 2) society at large; or 3) another more defined but critical audience/region/community.

Innovation: The contribution has broken new ground with original thinking/creativity that has established accelerated American Cuisine advancements.

Reach: The contribution has significantly impacted the American Cuisine’s reach among society at large, within key audiences or specific geographies.

Special consideration may also be given to a nominee’s lifelong accomplishments, contributions to more than one area of the American Cuisine, and the overall benefit of his or her. There is no requirement for the length of time the nominee has worked in/contributed to the industry, and nominations can be made posthumously. Individuals previously nominated must be re-nominated to be considered, and individuals cannot nominate themselves.

If you have any questions about the nominations process, please email info@aficanamericanchefshalloffame.org