Dr. Tim Ryan is the Culinary Institute of America’s first chancellor and was the longest-serving president of CIA, holding that role for 23 years. Dr. Ryan graduated from CIA in 1977 and received bachelor’s and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees from the University of New Haven. He earned his doctorate degree in education from The University of Pennsylvania. With the unique background of being a Certified Master Chef and Culinary Olympic champion with an Ivy League doctoral degree, he is the first alumnus and faculty member to rise through CIA to become president.
During his 30+ years at CIA, Dr. Ryan drove the institution’s growth and excellence, shaping its focus on health and wellness, global cuisines, food ethics, and sustainability. His leadership in culinary education and the foodservice industry includes founding the American Bounty Restaurant and leading the U.S. Culinary Team to victories at the Culinary World Cup and Culinary Olympics. Dr. Ryan’s tenure also led to major innovations, including the world’s first bachelor’s degrees in culinary arts and baking/pastry arts management, as well as expanded continuing education programs.
A notable figure in the hospitality world, Dr. Ryan was the youngest national president of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) and the youngest chef to receive Master Chef Certification. He has served as ACF president and along with our Ment’or Foundation board, he also serves on the boards of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation and the National Restaurant Association. He lives in Hyde Park, NY with his wife Lynne and their children, Jackson, Sawyer, and Mutala.
