Joey Fecci '17 Culinary Award

Joey Fecci was a young, talented, and up-and-coming chef who tragically passed away on April 27, 2024. From a very young age, Joey knew he was destined to be a chef. There are cherished pictures and stories of him from as early as 10 years old, cooking delicious meals for his family.
During his high school years, Joey attended B.O.C.E.S. in Yorktown, NY, during his Junior and Senior years. While still in high school, he gained valuable experience working in the kitchen at a local Italian restaurant, Lucia’s, in Bedford, NY. Joey’s passion for culinary arts led him to the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, where he graduated with honors at the top of his class.
Joey’s career flourished as he worked at various Michelin-starred restaurants, including Aureole and Per Se in New York City, Spiaggia in Chicago, and Yolan in Nashville. At the young age of 24, Joey was named Chef de Cuisine (CDC) at Yolan, a remarkable achievement that showcased his exceptional talent and dedication.
Joey was fortunate to work with and be mentored by a distinguished who’s who of Culinary Greats, including Tony Mantuano and Joe Flamm, whom he considered his mentors. Joey once said, “I have learned so much during my time at Yolan, not just as a Chef but as a person. Yet, the thing that I learned the most is that it’s not the food or service that makes restaurants so special. It’s the people that dedicate themselves to the craft of hospitality and food, and the guests that come and support those dedicated people. The restaurant is just a by-product of passion and culture.”
“Joey Fecci was an incredible talent. He was curious, hardworking, professional, and driven to be the best because of his solid core values. In my experience Joey was one of the most inspiring young chefs I had ever worked with. He carried the tradition of excellence in all the restaurants he worked in. He understood what it took to make a restaurant great.
He was also a great leader and teacher, always uniting his team with pregame pep talks before each service. He was very comfortable visiting tables and speaking to guests, many who would later become friends. He led by example. He really could do it all.” – Chef Tony Mantuano
Joey was on the brink of opening his first restaurant in Nashville when he passed away while running a marathon in the city. Beyond his culinary prowess, Joey was an avid New York sports fan, passionately supporting the NY Jets, NY Mets, NY Rangers, and NY Knicks. He was also dedicated to his health and enjoyed skiing, running, and working out.

For more information please visit www.JoeyFecciFoundation.org