THIBODAUX – Tickets are on sale for the Lafcadio Hearn Award Dinner at Nicholls State University’s Chef John Folse Culinary Institute. The dinner will take place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6 p.m. in the Nicholls Student Union Cotillion Ballroom.
The Lafcadio Hearn Award is the most coveted honor bestowed by the Institute. It recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on cuisine and culture in Louisiana and beyond. The award is named after Lafcadio Hearn, a journalist and author whose late 19th-century writings helped establish New Orleans as a global epicenter of gastronomy and preserved the legacy of Creole cooking for future generations.
“The Lafcadio Hearn Award Dinner is a way for us to celebrate and protect our special food history,” said Chef Jana Billiot, director of CJFCI. “By honoring people who have worked hard for our culture, we keep their traditions alive. This ensures that the work of great cooks and historians can be enjoyed by everyone for years to come.”
The evening will feature a multi-course dinner prepared and served by the talented students of the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, providing them with a premier opportunity to showcase their skills alongside distinguished industry professionals.
Proceeds from the dinner benefit the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, supporting student development and the continued excellence of one of the nation’s top culinary programs.
Sponsoring the event is a great way to support Nicholls students while getting your business noticed. As a sponsor, you don’t just get a table; you also get special perks like access to a private VIP reception and a guided tour of our culinary facilities. Your name or business will be featured in the event program and on Nicholls website to show appreciation for your support. Most importantly, your contribution helps provide the resources our students need to become the next generation of great chefs.
For more information, to purchase tickets or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.nicholls.edu/culinary/lafcadio-hearn-award-dinner/ or contact the Institute at 985-493-2700 or culinary@nicholls.edu.
About the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute:
The Chef John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University is dedicated to the preservation of Louisiana’s rich culinary history and the education of the next generation of hospitality leaders. Offering the only four-year Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts in Louisiana, the Institute provides students with a comprehensive education in the art and business of food.