Top honors for JVS instructor

Chef Timothy Michitsch, Lorain County JVS culinary arts instructor, recently received the 2020 Sysco Educator of the Year Award, according to a news release. This award, through the Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education, is open to secondary and postsecondary educators as well as culinary educators working within the nonprofit training sector.

Michitsch was nominated by Jill Petitti, JVS director of curriculum and instruction, and Maurina Driscoll, JVS hospitality services instructor.

“I was surprised when I heard I was being nominated for the award,” said Michitsch in the release. “I’m very grateful that others recognize the passion and dedication that so many of us have toward education. I just finished my 32nd year of teaching and to receive this award after all these years in education is a very humbling experience.”

Petitti and Driscoll provided CAFÉ with samples of Michitsch’s innovative teaching techniques, evidence of his professional commitment to the educational community and foodservice industry, his ongoing professional development and overall evidence of his proven leadership, the release said.

Colleagues, peers, industry partners, students, and members of the community wrote letters highlighting many of Michitsch’s accomplishments.

James Leo Walsh, Ph.D, J.D., professor emeritus, Oberlin College and assistant law director and chief prosecutor, Oberlin Municipal Court shared in the release: “Tim is a unique and exceptional educator who ties the JVS to its wider community, impacts its students with care and professionalism and prepares them for their entry into the culinary world.”

Former culinary arts student, Julia Spondike, stated that being able to compete on the WorldSkills USA Team in Russia was because of Michitsch. “I would not have been able to compete on that stage without his continuous support in my life and genuine interest in my career.”

“The application was an inspiration to all who read it,” said Mary Petersen, president, CAFÉ.

“We appreciate all that Tim and his program does to ensure that culinary education is held in high esteem and focuses on great outcomes.

SUBMITTED Timothy Michitsch smiles with his award.