Dawn Foods, a manufacturer and distributor of bakery ingredients and distributor, has announced that its Corporate Executive Chef and Director of Culinary & Innovation Studio, Melissa Trimmer, has received the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Pastry Chef of the Year Award 2022 from the Michigan Chefs de Cuisine chapter of ACF. The award reportedly recognizes her passion for the craft, accomplished reputation in the pastry field, and dedication to educating others by sharing skills and knowledge. Due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ACF held its first Chef of the Year dinner in two years, honoring both 2022 and 2023 award recipients at the event on January 22, 2024.
According to the company, Trimmer's contributions extend beyond her culinary expertise. She actively engages with the baking industry by participating in various events aimed at fostering culinary education and promoting diversity. In March, she will serve as a judge for the Michigan state ProStart competition, an industry-backed culinary arts and restaurant management program for high school students. With approximately 165,000 students participating in more than 1,800 schools nationwide, ProStart equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in the restaurant and foodservice industry.