FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2026
FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Natalie Feltz, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Food Service Management at Pierpont Community & Technical College, has received the American Culinary Federation President’s Medal, a national honor recognizing leadership and service to the culinary profession. The award was presented during the Presidential Banquet at the 2026 American Culinary Federation National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Feltz was one of three West Virginia chefs recognized during the event.
The American Culinary Federation recognized Feltz for her leadership as president of the ACF West Virginia Chapter, citing the chapter’s growth and the contributions of Pierpont graduates working throughout the state’s restaurant and hospitality industries.
For Feltz, the award reflects the mentors, colleagues and students who have shaped her career and the importance of investing in future culinary professionals.
“One of the most meaningful parts of this experience was attending the convention alongside fellow members of ACF West Virginia and students from Pierpont,” Feltz said. “Watching our students learn, network with industry professionals and represent West Virginia reinforced why supporting the next generation of chefs is so important.”
A Fairmont resident, Feltz is a graduate of Pierpont’s Food Service Management programs in pastry and baking arts, culinary arts and nutrition and dietetic technology. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and an MBA from Fairmont State University. Today, she serves as associate professor and program coordinator for the college’s Food Service Management, Culinary Arts and Pastry and Baking Arts programs.
“National recognition like this reflects the quality of both our faculty and our programs,” said Dr. Michael Waide, President of Pierpont Community & Technical College. “Natalie has built a reputation for excellence as an educator, mentor and industry leader, and she represents the strong connections Pierpont maintains with employers and professional organizations. Her recognition highlights the impact our graduates and faculty are making in communities and industries throughout West Virginia.”
Having worked with Feltz throughout much of her career at Pierpont, David Beighley, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, said her influence extends well beyond the classroom.
“Natalie’s recognition by the American Culinary Federation reflects years of dedication to her students, her profession and the hospitality industry in West Virginia,” Beighley said. “As both a graduate and faculty leader, she brings a unique perspective to her work because she has experienced firsthand the opportunities our programs create. Her commitment to student success, industry engagement and professional excellence has strengthened our culinary programs and opened doors for students across the region.”
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Feltz serves as president of the ACF West Virginia Chapter, chairs the West Virginia SkillsUSA Culinary Contest and regularly volunteers as a judge and mentor for student culinary competitions. She also supports community initiatives throughout the region and has contributed to programs benefiting veterans and aspiring culinary professionals.
Feltz said the recognition serves as a reminder of the responsibility culinary professionals have to support one another and create opportunities for those entering the field.
“Serving as president of ACF West Virginia has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” Feltz said. “I’m thankful for the mentors, colleagues, students and family members who have encouraged me along the way, and I look forward to continuing to build opportunities for culinary professionals across our state.”
The American Culinary Federation is the nation’s largest professional organization for chefs and cooks, providing education, certification, networking and professional development opportunities for culinary professionals nationwide.
Pierpont Community & Technical College provides accessible, responsive, and high‑quality education to students and businesses across North Central West Virginia. With a strong focus on career readiness and workforce development, Pierpont offers academic programs and industry‑aligned training that create clear pathways to employment. Through this work, the college helps students discover their path while supporting the region’s economic and workforce needs.
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