Patricia "Kelly" McClay

Dean, C.E.C., C.C.E.

Birthplace: Atlantic City, N.J.

Education and training:

A.A. from ACCC; B.A. Drexel University, certified vocational educator

Career highlights:

Chef McClay launched her career at the Ramada Corp.'s hotel in Washington, D.C. In 1981, she returned to her native city, working successively in the kitchens of the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, Marriott's Seaview Country Club and the Trump Castle Hotel and Casino before becoming executive sous chef at Resorts International. Chef McClay has been with the Academy since 1994 and assistant director since 1996. She was named acting dean in October 2006.

Honors and affiliations:

Member, American Culinary Federation and co-chairperson of its Culinary Day 1998.

Specialty:

Hot foods