AWARDS & ACCOLADES
Each year the Ohio Restaurant Association (ORA) host their annual Industry Awards Celebration held during the Mid-America Restaurant Expo. We spotlight leaders and professionals of Ohio’s restaurant and foodservice industry to honor their dedication, excellence and service to the industry,
communities and beyond.
Outstanding Industry Educator
This award honors an educator who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of the Ohio foodservice industry.
2018 Recipient : Chef Chris Olszewski “Chef O”, Polaris Career Center
2019 Recipient: Chef James Taylor, Columbus State Community College
2020 Recipient: Chef Vincenzo "Enzo" Sclama, Hocking College
Schools of Distinction
A School of Distinction designation is bestowed upon schools that have at least 70% of their seniors enrolled in the ProStart program earn the industry certification (ProStart Certificate of Achievement) and at least 70% of all students enrolled passing the Level 1 and Level 2 exams in any given academic school year.
Teachers of Distinction
The teacher of distinction signifies the most engaged teachers in the Ohio ProStart program. They participate in the program to the fullest and maximize the education for their students. These teachers participate in the Ohio ProStart Invitational; submit student certification forms and scholarship applications to the Foundation annually; accesses Ohio ProStart supports; attends the annual Teachers Institute and Celebration of the Stars events; and completes all Foundation surveys and reports. These teachers are always willing to help improve and support the state and national ProStart program. We salute these Teachers of Distinction and thank them for their service.
