07/04/2026
Dear ACF New Orleans Board Members and Members,
I wanted to take a moment to share a summary of my experience attending the recent ACF National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and to thank everyone for the opportunity to represent our chapter.
The convention was a valuable few days of networking, education, professional development, and reconnecting with chefs and industry leaders from across the country. It was a strong reminder of why the American Culinary Federation matters — not only as a professional organization, but as a place where chefs, educators, students, competitors, and mentors come together to move the industry forward.
The opening days included networking opportunities, the Board of Governors meeting, educational sessions, and time on the vendor showroom floor. There were many conversations centered around chapter leadership, membership involvement, culinary education, competition, senior care, catering, and the future of the profession. I was especially encouraged by the energy around student engagement and the continued importance of mentorship within the ACF.
One of the highlights was seeing how other chapters are using national events to build visibility, support their members, and raise funds for their local programs. The Michigan chapter hosted a well-organized barbecue fundraiser that was nicely put together, supported by vendors, and handled with professionalism. It was a good example of how a chapter can create fellowship, raise money, and showcase hospitality at the same time.
The showroom floor also offered a chance to connect with vendors, explore new products, and gather ideas that could benefit our chapter, our members, and our local culinary community. From food products and equipment to creative presentations and educational opportunities, there was plenty to bring back and think about.
Another meaningful part of the convention was hearing from chefs and speakers who reminded us that it is never too late to grow, change direction, reconnect with purpose, or find new opportunities in this profession. Those conversations personally struck a chord with me. Sometimes in this industry, and even in leadership, it can feel like you are working alone. But conventions like this remind us that there are always others facing similar challenges, asking similar questions, and still pushing forward.
Overall, the convention reinforced the importance of showing up. Being present at the national level matters. It gives our chapter a voice, keeps us connected to the larger organization, and allows us to bring information, ideas, and inspiration back home to New Orleans.
I left Grand Rapids with renewed energy and a better understanding of what is happening across the ACF nationally. There are opportunities for us to grow our involvement, strengthen our connections with students and educators, encourage competition, and continue building pride in our local chapter.
I will also be sharing a separate message with some areas for growth and opportunities for improvement that became clear to me during the convention. I believe that conversation deserves its own space so that this recap can remain focused on the convention experience, the positive takeaways, and the opportunities ahead.
Thank you again for allowing me to represent ACF New Orleans. I look forward to sharing more with the board and membership as we continue moving forward.
Respectfully,
Chef Ron Iafrate
Acf Upper Michigan ChapterACF Professional Chefs of NHACF of Greater Baton Rouge
