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Why This Scholarship Dinner Matters?

Many talented culinary and hospitality students – especially students of color – are being priced out of their education. This dinner raises critical scholarship funds so they can stay in school, train with the right tools, and step confidently into the industry.

2025 scholarship recipientS

Houston Community College Students

Houston Community College (HCC) students played a key role in the Heart & Soul Culinary Scholarship Dinner, gaining real-world experience while several received scholarships and gift cards to support their culinary education.

Claude Tekem

A scholarship recipient expressed gratitude to Feed the Soul Foundation, sharing that the award eases the cost of their business management studies at PGCC and allows them to focus on their growth.

Bethune-Cookman Hospitality

Scholarship support enabled Bethune-Cookman University Hospitality Management students to attend the National Society of Minorities in Hospitality (NSMH) Fall Conference, gaining valuable professional development and networking with industry leaders.

The Dinner Experience

6 Courses. 6 Chefs. One Unforgettable Night.

Savor a globally inspired six-course dinner with specialty cocktails and fine wine pairings, all curated by celebrity and award-winning chefs.

Thomas Bille

Chef and co-owner of Belly of the Beast and 2025 James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Texas

Dominick Lee

Chef-partner at Augustine’s and recipient of the Underbelly Scholarship Award

Beatriz Martines

Owner of Xalisko Cocina Mexicana and James Beard Award nominee

Michelle Wallace

Owner of B’tween Sandwich Co, 2021 Fan Favorite on Bravo’s Top Chef, and a 2022 James Beard “Taste Twenty” Chef (Taste America Series)

Adrian Torres

Executive chef at Maximo and Rising Star Chef Award honoree by StarChefs

Reginald Scott

Owner of The Smoke House and 2021 Oxtail Mashup winner

The Awards Experience

This evening honors culinary leaders who shaped Houston’s food culture and inspired the next generation of chefs.

Chef Mark Holley

Executive Chef Davis Street at Herman Park

Chef Hugo Ortega

Owner & Executive Chef of Hugo’s Restaurant

Mrs. Sallie Creuzot

Matriarch of Frenchy’s Chicken

Our Dinner Chairs

The leaders bringing this evening and its mission to life.

Brandi & Brandon Carson

Chef David & Sara Cordua

JOIN US AT THE Table

Heart & Soul 2026 Scholarship Dinner

Guests will enjoy a globally inspired six‑course dinner paired with specialty cocktails and fine wines, curated by six acclaimed chefs. The night will honor Mrs. Sallie Creuzot with the Culinary Impact Award and celebrate legendary Chefs Mark Holley and Hugo Ortega with the Chef Legacy Award for their lasting contributions and mentorship.

RESERVE YOUR TABLE

supports our scholarship program

Heart & Soul 2026 Chef's Raffle

Our Chef’s Raffle is your opportunity to treat your family and friends to one-of-a-kind dining experiences carefully curated and generously donated by our six participating top chefs. Choose from two private at-home and four restaurant culinary experiences. Your ticket purchase supports our scholarship program and helps students pursue their culinary dreams.
Purchase Your Raffle Ticket

THE LOCATION

The Corinthian Houston, a historic neo-classical venue in downtown, offers a stunning setting for an unforgettable evening of impact and celebration.

The Corinthian Houston
202 Fannin St. Houston, TX 77002

2026 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

Thank you to the partners powering this mission.