WHEREAS, on the occasion of Chef Patrick O’Connell’s 80^th birthday, it is fitting to recognize his remarkable life and career, which have elevated Virginia and American cuisine to international acclaim; and

WHEREAS, it is especially meaningful that this milestone is celebrated at Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, a place that reflects vision, creativity, and a tradition of welcome, continuing to inspire Virginians; and

WHEREAS, Chef O’Connell’s journey began when he took a job in a small restaurant in Clinton, Maryland, at age 15, and years later, in 1978, he opened The Inn at Little Washington in a converted garage in Washington, Virginia, which has since grown into one of the most celebrated dining destinations in the world; and

WHEREAS, without formal culinary training, Chef O’Connell taught himself, building on discipline and imagination, and worked side by side with local farmers and artisanal producers to create cuisine rooted in Virginia’s traditions and resources; and

WHEREAS, the Inn at Little Washington has expanded into a 22-building campus with gardens, beehives, and greenhouses, and has earned rare distinctions, including three Michelin stars and a Michelin Green Star for sustainability; and

WHEREAS, Chef O’Connell is known for treating  every diner as a personal guest at his table, a philosophy that has drawn presidents, royalty, and dignitaries from across the globe, while offering Virginians the same warmth and hospitality; and

WHEREAS, his contributions to the culinary world have been recognized with the National Humanities Medal, the James Beard Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award, multiple James Beard awards, and honorary doctorates from William & Mary, Johnson & Wales University, and the Culinary Institute of America; and

WHEREAS, just as Jefferson advanced Virginia’s legacy of innovation and hospitality at Monticello, Chef O’Connell has carried that spirit into the culinary arts, blending French inspiration with devotion to his community, and he has strengthened the Spirit of Virginia through his work;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 9, 2025, as CHEF PATRICK JAMES O’CONNELL DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I commend his extraordinary contributions to the culinary arts, to Virginia, and to the nation.