A native of Greece who grew up in Ireland, Lafcadio Hearn arrived in New Orleans in 1877. He spent a decade in the city, reporting for local newspapers and, more importantly, writing books and articles for national magazines that highlighted local cuisine and culture. Those writings helped establish New Orleans as the epicenter for cuisine and culture in America.

The Lafcadio Hearn Award, the most coveted honor bestowed by the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University, recognizes individuals who have had a lasting influence on the cuisine and culture of their state or nation. The Chef John Folse Culinary Institute upholds Hearn’s philosophy – preservation of cuisine, culture and the legacy of brilliant culinarians, food service professionals, historians, writers for the gastronomic pleasure of future generations. Out roster of honorees personifies this fundamental truth.