Chef Shawn Loving, department chair of Schoolcraft College’s Culinary Arts program, was named a Certified Master Chef by the American Culinary Federation after passing ACF’s rigorous exam held Sept. 30 through Oct. 7, 2017 at Schoolcraft College in Livonia, Mich. The ultimate test of culinary skill, knowledge and creativity, the exam showcased the talents of 10 culinarians seeking the title of CMC, the highest level of certification in the U.S. that a chef can receive.

During the progressive eight-day exam, Loving and the other candidates were tested on healthy cooking, buffet catering, classical cuisine, freestyle cooking, global cuisine, baking and pastry, continental and Northern European cuisines, and “market basket,” a mystery basket of ingredients from which to prepare a five-course meal. Each candidate needed to maintain an average of 75 out of 100 points each day. Scores are tallied based on kitchen skills, plate presentation and taste.