About Chef Ken
Kenny Ward Jr. is more than a self-taught chef—he’s a multi-passionate leader whose gifts stretch across food, faith, business, and community development. With a unique blend of experience in the kitchen, the classroom, the boardroom, and the pulpit, Kenny continues to impact lives with authenticity, heart, and purpose.
Cooking with Heart
Kenny’s love for cooking was born in his family kitchen, watching his mother and father prepare flavorful meals rooted in Southern tradition. Over time, that passion transformed into a platform—one where creativity meets culture and comfort meets health. As the creator of the popular online brand "Cooking with Chef Ken," he quickly gained a devoted following for his viral air-fried recipes, soulful dinners, and down-to-earth storytelling.
From sweet and tangy wings to honey bourbon salmon, Kenny is known for putting a healthy twist on Southern comfort food. But for Kenny, cooking is more than a meal—it’s ministry. It’s how he brings people together, honors his heritage, and reminds others of the joy found in everyday moments shared around the table.
Beyond the Kitchen
Academic and Professional Leadership
Kenny is a proud graduate of Alabama State University, Troy University, and Faulkner University, where he earned degrees in Accounting, Human Resources, and Business Administration. His early career was spent in the field of accounting, where he worked in corporate and governmental roles before transitioning into higher education. He served as an Instructor of Business and Accounting, then advanced to become Division Chair and Director of Professional Development, where he helped shape curriculum, mentor future leaders, and guide professional growth for faculty and students alike.
Today, Kenny leads as the Director of Talent Acquisition for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, where he connects college students, young professionals, and employers to meaningful career pathways across Alabama’s capital region. His work is reshaping workforce strategies and empowering the next generation of talent.
A worshipper at heart, Kenny is also a recording artist. His single, He Reigns Forever, showcases his passion for gospel music and his desire to inspire through song. Music is just one more way Kenny shares his story and lifts others up. Kenny travels frequently to speak at conferences, churches, schools, and community events, focusing on topics like leadership, career development, personal growth, and faith. His engaging and transparent style motivates audiences to embrace who they are, confront their setbacks, and move forward with confidence.
Kenny’s signature message:
"Be the best version of yourself—boldly, purposefully, and without apology."
