Sharp knives and sharp culinary skills were on full display as chefs from across Aramark lines of business went head-to-head locally and regionally to become finalists in this year’s Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition.
ACE allows chefs to showcase their passion for excellence in a competitive, exciting, and enriching environment dedicated to providing growth and development while continuing to nurture a global culinary culture.
Aramark Student Nutrition ACE Finalists
In June, five top chefs from Aramark Student Nutrition went on to their business’ national ACE competition held at the Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio, TX. Three Aramark guest judges ranked the chefs based on their preparation of a four-course meal created from a mystery basket of ingredients.
Congratulations to the following chef finalists who will compete as a team in the enterprise-wide ACE competition in October 2025:
- Chef Brent Loving, Midlothian Independent School District, TX
- Chef Kristine Muneoka-Abbey, Greater Clarke County Schools, IN
- Chef Nicole Upton, Pawtucket School Department, RI
“Our chefs are experts at delivering nutritious, delicious food in ways that engage students and fuel their potential every day,” said Barbara Flanagan, President and CEO, Aramark Student Nutrition. “I am so proud of our ACE chefs who have worked to demonstrate their culinary artistry and passion for service.”
The team of three Aramark Student Nutrition chefs will move on to compete against other chefs from Aramark Collegiate Hospitality, Aramark Destinations, Aramark Healthcare+, Aramark Sports + Entertainment, and Aramark Workplace Experience Group at the enterprise-wide ACE competition in the fall.
