Morrison Healthcare’s Research & Development Chef, Jay Ziobrowski, widely known as Chef Jay Z, has received national recognition for his contributions to the culinary field. In July, he was named the winner of the Dr. L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award, presented by the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
This prestigious award honors a chef who exemplifies exceptional professionalism through certification, continuing education, culinary competitions, and community involvement, helping elevate the role and reputation of chefs and cooks across the country.
“I am truly humbled and incredibly appreciative of my peers in the industry who have supported me all these years. The recognition means a great deal, as it reflects the values, I strive to uphold every day—integrity, professionalism, inspiration, and a passion for mentoring/teaching others, said Chef Jay Z.
Representing the ACF’s Southeast Region, Chef Jay Z was one of four standout chefs nominated. He also received the Cutting-Edge Award, which recognizes culinary professionals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to mentoring others.
Championing Culinary Innovation
During his four years at Morrison, Chef Jay Z and the R&D team have reimagined several “better-for-you” food concepts, including CauliClub, On the Vine, Carrot Greens, and All Caps—a mushroom-based entrée. Their latest innovation, Blended Theory, is a smoothie bowl concept featuring fresh fruits and yogurt with fantastic peanut butter energy bites, set to launch soon.
Since 2012, he’s also been inspiring young minds through his “5 a Day the Color Way” program, teaching elementary and middle school students about healthy eating. To make the lessons engaging, he created colorful characters like Bobby Broccoli, Carlos Carrot, Gabby Green Bean, and Alice Apple.
“‘Raise the bar’ has always been a guiding principle in everything I do,” Chef Jay Z explains. “Working with children is one of the most rewarding parts of my career. There’s something special about seeing that spark when a kiddo tries a new food, makes a healthier choice, or discovers a love for cooking. Knowing I can plant a seed that grows into a lifelong passion or habit keeps me motivated. It’s about impact, inspiration, and leading by example.”
“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 meets them at their level. For example, he teaches portion size by comparing it to the size of their fist—a concept they easily understand.”
Supporting Veterans
Chef Jay Z’s commitment to service also extends to veterans. He helped create a hearty, nutritious breakfast for military participants in the Wounded Warriors’ Operation North Star fishing event on Lake Norman for the past 4 years.
After learning they were being served only fast food before a full day on the water, Chef Jay Z and local ACF members set up an outdoor kitchen and prepared fresh egg sandwiches to order. They also secured donations of fruit and energy snacks.
“It was a small gesture,” he says, “but it’s what they deserve.”
Raising Cancer Awareness
This September, Chef Jay Z will serve as MC for the Fork Cancer benefit in Charlotte for the fifth consecutive year. The event supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and features ten of the city’s top chefs, who showcase how healthy foods can aid in cancer prevention.
The cause is deeply personal to him:
“My mom passed away from pancreatic cancer, my grandmother from breast cancer, and my father is a survivor of stomach and intestinal cancer.”
As MC he introduces each chef and their dish, helping connect guests to the food’s purpose and potential to support health.
“I enjoy inspiring an audience,” Chef Jay Z says. “Whether I’m encouraging kids to eat better, providing veterans with wholesome meals, helping raise money for cancer research, or working with the Morrison chefs, this is how I use my skills to make a difference in people’s lives.”
