Alford, Chef Richard W. Scholarship
The Chef Richard W. Alford Scholarship was originally established in 2000 to support students in the Hospitality Management program at The University of Akron. The scholarship was revised in 2024 to update the scholarship's purpose and candidate requirements.
Chef Richard W. Alford, Certified Culinary Educator and Certified Executive Chef, earned all his degrees from The University of Akron, graduating with an associate degree in Food Service Management in 1974, a Bachelor of Science in Technical Education in 1975, and a Master of Science in Technical Education in 1987. Chef Alford dedicated 29 years to teaching culinary arts at both the collegiate and high school levels and received many awards for his accomplishments.
Chef Alford has been recognized as Chef of the Year twice by the Akron Canton Chefs and Cooks Association and received the President's Award from the National Ice Carving Association (NICA). In 2008, he was inducted into the NICA Hall of Fame and led The University of Akron Ice Team to four national, local, and regional championships. Additionally, he co-founded the World Food Sculpture Association. In recognition of his contributions, Chef Alford was inducted into the Barberton City Schools Academic Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Akron Softball Hall of Fame in 2024.
The University of Akron no longer offers the Hospitality Management program. The Chef Richard W. Alford Scholarship was revised in 2024 to redesignate the scholarship to benefit nursing students per Chef Alford's wishes. During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, Chef Alford faced significant health challenges and was hospitalized for an extended period. He was profoundly impressed by the exceptional care provided by the nursing staff during his recovery, which inspired his decision to redirect the scholarship.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to students enrolled in The University of Akron's School of Nursing. It is open to those who are in good academic standing and demonstrate financial need. Recipients shall be selected by The University Scholarship Committee in the Office of Student Financial Aid.
To make a tax-deductible gift to this scholarship, please visit °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ’s . Select “A different designation” from the drop-down menu and enter “Chef Alford Scholarship" in the text box. Thank you!
​