Andre Burnier, chef instructor and senior core faculty member at New England Culinary Institute, has been chosen to join a select company of his peers in Las Vegas, Nev., this spring. 

Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, established in 1951 as l’Association des Maîtres-Queux, nominate chefs they have observed exhibiting the knowledge, skill and attitude worthy of consideration for induction into one of the world’s most prestigious culinary associations, whose mission is to preserve and spread the French culinary arts, encourage training in cuisine and assist professional development.

For the first time, the General Assembly of the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France will be held in the United States, March 5-9, 2014. In addition, new members will be added to the Master Chef list with an induction ceremony. The l’Academie Culinaire de France will also host a special dinner to elect the woman of the year and reward one of its members with the Fauteuil de l’Academie for lifetime achievement.

With Burnier’s induction, New England Culinary Institute is the only culinary school in the United States with four Maîtres de Cuisine de France on staff. Burnier joins:

• Fran Voigt, founder, New England Culinary Institute; Maître Cuisinier de France Emeritus

• Michel Leborgne, founding chef, New England Culinary Institute; Maître Cuisinier de France

• Jean Louis Gerin, executive chef and vice president of culinary affairs; Maître Cuisinier de France

New England Culinary Institute, founded in 1980, is widely recognized for its innovative immersion style of education featuring small classes, hands-on learning and personal attention.  Its graduates are sought after the world over for their level of skill and preparation. For more information on New England Culinary Institute or its multi-award-winning restaurants, visit www.neci.edu or www.necidining.com.