Morrison Research & Development Chef Jay Ziobrowski, known as Chef Jay Z, has earned national recognition for his work educating thousands of Charlotte children about healthy eating habits. The American Culinary Federation (ACF) has nominated him for the prestigious Dr. L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award.
This award honors chefs who demonstrate exceptional professionalism through certification, continuing education, culinary competitions, and community involvement. Chef Jay Z is one of four national nominees, with the winner to be announced at the ACF National conference in July.
Culinary Innovation
In his four years at Morrison, Chef Jay Z and the research and development team have recreated several better for you eating concepts, including CauliClub, On the Vine, Carrot Greens, and All Caps (a mushroom-based entrée). They’ll soon launch Blended Theory, a plant-forward smoothie bowl concept featuring fruits and vegetables.
Leadership and Recognition
Chef Jay Z has demonstrated long-standing leadership in the culinary community, having served four years as president of the ACF Chefs of Charlotte Chapter, followed by a term as its chairman. He was honored in 2023 with the ACF Presidential Medal #2 in recognition of his ongoing dedication to advancing the ACF, supporting local chapters, and his unwavering commitment to the culinary profession.
Teaching Children About Nutrition
Since 2012, Chef JayZ has taught elementary and middle school students about healthy eating through his “5 a Day the Color Way” program. To engage young audiences, he created colorful fruit and vegetable characters, including Bobby Broccoli, Gabby Green Bean, and Alice Apple.
“Kids these days only know the food they see in stores,” Chef JayZ explains. “I’ll hold up beets or a pineapple, and some children can’t identify them. I want them to recognize all fruits and vegetables and discuss them with their parents.”
His animated teaching style resonates with students. At 6’3″ with a slim, energetic presence, and that tall chef toque, he captivates young audiences.
“The kids love him,” says Tanya Cauren, a retired chef and past treasurer of Chefs of Charlotte. “He commands their attention with his enthusiasm and educates them at their level. For example, he explains portion size by comparing it to the size of their fist—a concept they easily understand.”
Supporting Veterans
Chef Jay Z’s community service extends beyond classrooms. He helped create a breakfast to provide better meals for military veterans participating in the Wounded Warriors’ Operation North Star fishing event on Lake Norman.
When he and the local ACF chapter learned participants were only receiving fast food before a full day on the water, Chef Jay Z and fellow chefs set up an outdoor kitchen to prepare fresh egg sandwiches to order. They also arranged donations of fresh fruit and energy packs.
“It was a small gesture,” he says, “but it’s what they deserve.”
Raising Cancer Awareness
Chef Jay Z will serve as master of ceremonies for the fifth consecutive year at Charlotte’s annual “Fork Cancer” benefit. The event raises funds for St. Jude Hospital’s childhood cancer research.
At this September gathering of 250 attendees, ten of Charlotte’s top chefs demonstrate how healthy food can help fight cancer. The cause holds personal significance for Chef Jay Z:
“My mom passed away from pancreatic cancer, my grandmother from breast cancer, and my father is a survivor of stomach and intestinal cancer.”
As emcee, he introduces each dish and shares the chefs’ stories to connect with the audience about food’s role in cancer prevention.
“I enjoy inspiring an audience,” Chef Jay Z says. “Whether encouraging children to eat better, providing veterans with healthy meals, or supporting cancer research fundraising—this is how I can use my skills to make a difference in people’s lives.”
