College of Charleston chef Tonya Mitchell is recognized as one of the top ARAMARK chefs in the Southeast. Mitchell, who primarily works in The City Bistro, placed second at the Southeast Regional ARAMARK Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition on April 5, 2012. The ACE Program recognizes and rewards outstanding chefs throughout ARAMARK higher education accounts and provides the opportunity for the chefs to demonstrate their culinary abilities in a competitive and engaging dining environment.

Mitchell is one of more than 150 ARAMARK chefs from colleges, universities and conference centers across North America who will compete in the 2012 ARAMARK Culinary Excellence program for the chance to win the coveted “Copper Pot” at the ARAMARK Culinary Excellence National Challenge, the culmination of the ACE program.

To earn second place in the Southeast regional competition, Mitchell had to present a three course meal to a panel of judges. The chefs prepared one show-plate each for the students and judges and a taster-plate for each judge. Each chef had four hours to prepare the meal from prep to finish. Each of the participating chefs was selected because he or she consistently strives for culinary excellence and is focused on surpassing customers’ expectations with great meals.

“We are excited that Tonya Mitchell has been recognized during the Southeast Regional ACE Culinary competition and this achievement demonstrates her culinary talents, creativity and expertise,” said Bill McCulley, Senior Food Service Director, ARAMARK.

For more information on the competition, please contact Matt Rogers, Resident District Manager, ARAMARK at Rogers-Matt@ARAMARK.com.

About ARAMARK Higher Education

ARAMARK Higher Education is dedicated to excellence in dining, facility, conference center, and stadium and arena services. ARAMARK enhances the living and learning experience and environment for more than 600 colleges and universities throughout North America.  For more information and a list of our services, visit www.aramarkhighered.com.