About

Chapter Leadership

Our chapter is guided by dedicated culinary professionals who help shape programming, support members, and strengthen the chapter’s role in the local industry.

Chef Ryan Hembree

Chapter President

Jeff Slathar, CWPC

Vice President

JeffSlatar@aol.com

Chef April Malik

Secretary

AprilMalik@k12.sd.us

Clark Braun, CEC, AAC

Treasurer

brauncb@aol.com

Fred Ferrara, CEC, CCE

Webmaster

acfchef18@gmail.com

“We bring culinary professionals together to learn, lead, and strengthen our local industry.”

– ACF Black Hills Chapter of Professional Chefs


Supporting Culinary Excellence

The ACF Black Hills Chapter brings together chefs, cooks, bakers, educators, and hospitality professionals who are committed to advancing the culinary field across the Black Hills region and the entire state of South Dakota.

Through professional development, chapter events, and peer connection, we help members strengthen their craft, expand their networks, and contribute to a vibrant local food community. The chapter exists to support the people who make the regional culinary community stronger every day.


We believe a strong chapter does more than host meetings. It creates momentum for learning, encourages leadership, and helps members build lasting professional relationships that benefit kitchens, businesses, and guests throughout the Black Hills.

View Events

Community Connection

The chapter builds strong relationships among chefs, students, and hospitality leaders through events, collaboration, and shared support.

Chapter Service

Networking events

Local partnerships

Member engagement

Educational Programs

Skill Development

Industry Insight

Mentorship

Chef quote graphic for ACF Black Hills Chapter About page