Celebrating Chef Joe Kraft’s CEC, CCA, AAC ACF Presidential Medallion
Chef Appreciation Week (Sept. 12-18th, 2022) is an opportunity to celebrate Morrison Healthcare’s outstanding chefs and culinarians and the community they create through food. Our chefs continue to empower the community through their dedication, creativity, and passion for nourishing and connecting with delicious food.
Chef Joe Kraft is an excellent example of a chef whose passion and hard work is not only evident at Morrison Healthcare, but also in the culinary world. Joe was recently awarded the prestigious 2022 Presidential Medallion Award by the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
“When I found out I would be receiving the award, I was surprised, honored, and flattered. The President of the ACF presented the award to me in Las Vegas, Nevada, in front of my peers and colleagues, which was incredible,” said Joe.
He has been a member of the ACF since 1990, and this is not his first Presidential Medallion Award. He actually won this same award back in 2004. The Presidential Medallion is the highest honors given by the ACF national president and can only be awarded every ten years to the same person.
“This is one of the most significant awards you can receive in the culinary world, and I am so proud of Joe. He’s been a mentor to me throughout the nine and a half years I’ve been with Morrison Healthcare, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving,” said Jeffrey Quasha, Sr. Director of Culinary Innovation.
Joe received this year’s award for his continued efforts and support of the ACF and in the industry.
“Joe has always been a passionate leader and an outspoken advocate for our industry. Joe has always made it a priority to give back to the local communities he serves, sharing his talents and passion for food. As an ACF member myself for the past 25 years, receiving this recognition is not to be taken lightly. I’m so very proud to have been able to be present for the presentation to personally congratulate Joe,” said Lenny Scranton, Regional Vice President.
When it comes to community, Joe has committed to giving back and being involved. He has served as President and a Chairperson on the board of the Chef and Child Foundation, a philanthropy arm of the ACF that serves to provide education on proper nutrition. Joe helped incorporate the parents and guardians into the training. “Since good food choice decisions and influence are made by the parents and guardians, it is so important for them to receive the education as well,” he said.
Joe will be celebrating his 20th year with Morrison Healthcare this upcoming December. Throughout his time with the company, his all-time favorite memory was back in 2007 when he listened to the keynote speech from Michael Svagdis, which was about family values, the importance of collaboration, and a sense of community.
Joe said, “I remember walking out of that meeting. I was not only empowered but inspired by the mission and our organization values that Morrison Healthcare still offers today.”
