Leerosendo West earned his well-deserved reputation amazing the city’s Gaslamp District with masterful paella creations. He also earned the title 2020 Chefs de Cuisine Chef of the Year
Diane Ander was an Executive Assistant at the Otay Water District for 16 years. She says her role as Foundation Secretary was a natural transition for her.
Myrna Cox is a “Foodie Enthusiast” with a lifelong passion for cooking. She also has a special “calling” to help those who struggle with health issues, hunger, and homelessness.
Paul De Puyt is a 40-year resident of San Diego who has always had a passion for the culinary arts. He adheres to the concept of life-long learning and was the 2020 Chefs de Cuisine Student of the Year.
Bradford L. Bruce is a premier San Diego wine judge, a wine enthusiast, seminar developer, and presenter. He has been judging wines for the California Grapevine Newsletter for 17 years.
Christine Garingo Laraza is a student completing her studies in Culinary Arts at Grossmont College and was awarded the honor of being the 2019 Chefs de Cuisine Student of the Year.
Sha Sha Gideo is an instructor in the Grossmont College Culinary and Business departments, San Diego University Integrated Studies, and the California Miramar University Hospitality Degree program.
Steven Keifer received the 2020 Chefs de Cuisine Educator of the Year Award. This San Diego native credits his passion for food with the “audacious multicultural flavors of this city”.
Shannon Ratliff is a strong advocate for locally grown and produced foods and products and believes everyone deserves access to fresh and healthy produce.
Jeff Roberto is a master sushi chef and the owner of Sushi On a Roll and Kyoto Japanese Market. He was a local culinary legend long before the current popularity of sushi in San Diego.
Ricardo Santana is immediate past president of the Chefs de Cuisine Association and currently serves as chairman of the board and a liaison between the Association and the Education Foundation.
