An Oakland University chef recently brought home the gold medal in an international "Culinary Olympics."

John Miller, executive chef at Chartwells at OU, received an individual gold medal and was part of the Michigan team that won more medals than any other U.S. state in the 23rd International Culinary Art Exhibition in Germany this fall. 

The competition featured more than 1,600 chefs from more than 50 countries; more than 25,000 people attended the competition, which is similar to a traditional athletic Olympics in that it brings together the best chefs from around the world. 

The Michigan team's goal was to use Michigan products in the competition. “We represented the Detroit Metro area, Michigan and the entire United States on an International stage, using products grown, raised, processed and manufactured in our Great Lakes state, emphasizing that Michigan is home to some of the greatest products and chefs in the world," said Randy Smith, manager of the Michigan team and executive chef of the Walnut Creek Country Club. 

Miller has a 19-year culinary background and has been involved with many culinary and community projects while at OU. 

For more information about the Michigan team, visit www.mccachef.org