UNM chef brings global flavor, leadership and heart to the national stage and wins big

The University of New Mexico is celebrating a major culinary achievement as Campus Executive Chef Franco Lossio has officially won his regional Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) Competition, earning his place at the ACE National Championships this July. His victory shines a national spotlight on UNM Food and highlights the creativity, leadership, and heart he brings to campus each day.

Born on the coast of Peru, Franco moved to the United States at age 21 to pursue a life fueled by food, family, and exploration. After completing a bachelor's degree in hospitality with a back-of-house focus and a Culinology minor from Cal Poly Pomona, he built a diverse 15-year culinary career spanning Los Angeles family kitchens, high-end Orlando dining, and Aramark Collegiate Hospitality at James Madison University.

That journey ultimately led him to UNM, where he now serves as executive chef, known for elevating campus dining through inventive menus, global influences, and meaningful relationships with students, faculty, and staff. Earlier this year, he also earned his Pro Chef III certification from the Culinary Institute of America, a distinction recognizing his advanced mastery and leadership.

Now, with his ACE regional win, Franco continues building momentum.

"I'm truly honored to represent UNM - and now move on to Nationals," Franco said. "This win is a privilege, and competing at the next level allows me to grow not only as a culinarian but as a leader. I'm excited to take this experience even further."

UNM leadership shares this pride, celebrating both his accomplishment and the impact he makes on campus. "Chef Franco represents the creativity, care, and excellence that help shape the daily experience of our campus community. Culinary programs are an important part of how students, faculty, staff, and visitors connect with the university, and Chef Franco's talent and passion elevate that experience in meaningful ways," said Shawna Wolfe, vice president of UNM Institutional Support Services. "We are proud to see UNM represented at the Aramark Culinary Excellence Competition and excited to celebrate the impact his work has on our campus."

When he isn't crafting new flavors or leading his culinary team, Franco finds grounding outdoors, often camping with his wife and their pets, connecting with the quiet moments that fuel his creativity and leadership in the kitchen.

As he prepares for the national ACE stage this July, Franco brings not only refined technique and global perspective, but also the heart of a leader who believes food can bring people together - a belief evident in every plate served at UNM.

"I can't wait to bring the knowledge, inspiration, and techniques from this journey back to our team," he said. "It's a teaching moment, a growing moment, and a chance for all of us to elevate together."

Franco now looks ahead with excitement as he prepares to represent the Lobos at Nationals.