Julie Selonke, CEC, Culinary Management Instructor and Program Coordinator at OCC’s Culinary Studies Institute, has been named the 2026 American Culinary Federation (ACF) National Educator of the Year, earning a gold medal score in the organization’s national competition.  

Selonke was also inducted into the American Academy of Chefs, the prestigious honor society of the ACF.  

“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me personally, and for OCC. It reflects the strength of OCC’s Culinary Studies Institute, the talent of our students, and the growing reputation of our program within the professional culinary community,” Selonke said. “I am incredibly proud to represent OCC nationally and shine a light on our students, colleagues and industry partners who make our work so meaningful.” 

A member of the OCC faulty member since 2011, Selonke has helped strengthen curriculum, expand industry partnerships, support student competitions and coordinate faculty initiatives. Before joining OCC, she held leadership positions throughout the culinary and hospitality industry, specializing in kitchen management, operations and team development. 

“This national recognition affirms what our students and industry partners already know: OCC’s Culinary Studies Institute is home to educators of the highest caliber, said OCC Provost Jolene Chapman. “We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate Chef Julie Selonke on this well-deserved honor.”  

In addition to her OCC responsibilities, Selonke has served for eight years on the Michigan Chefs de Cuisine, the local ACF chapter, and currently chairs the national ACF’s American Federation Women’s Alliance Female Leadership Alliance Mentoring Excellence committee. In these roles, she leads initiatives that support mentorship, leadership development and professional advancement for women in the culinary field. 

According to Selonke, 65 percent of culinary school graduates are women. Yet fewer than 20 percent of women are executive chefs, and less than 7 percent are chefs in top-tier restaurants.  

“Many women don’t lack talent; they lack permission and representation,” said Selonke. “When students see women leading kitchens, judging competitions, chairing national committees and earning honors such as induction into the American Academy of Chefs, it reinforces that excellence and leadership in this profession are attainable.” 

Selonke, a former graduate of OCC’s Culinary program, began her career in fast-paced restaurant kitchens working under well-known area chefs before working as a private chef. Today, she finds her greatest reward is helping students build confidence, professionalism and self-belief.  

“In a restaurant, a chef creates an experience that lasts an evening,” she said. “In education, you help build a foundation that lasts a lifetime.” 

Learn about OCC’s Culinary Arts programs at Culinary Studies Institute. 

About OCC       

Oakland Community College (OCC) has educated over one million students since 1965. OCC offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs and is committed to student success with affordable tuition, support services, flexible class options and top transfer opportunities. The College serves more than 20,000 students annually while advancing our community through education, training and career support. OCC is nationally recognized as Michigan’s top online college, and seventh in the U.S., by Newsweek’s  America’s Top Online Colleges 2025. Learn more at  oaklandcc.edu.        
 

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