Emeril Lagasse '78, '90 HDR

With a veritable empire of restaurants, cookbooks, food products and not to mention his successful prime time television show on the Food Network, Emeril Lagasse has had an iron grip on the culinary industry for over a decade. Through the countless accolades and awards he has garnered over the years, Emeril has become a household name among millions of food-loving Americans throughout the country.

Since his graduation from the university in ’78, he has been involved in practically every aspect of the culinary industry. When he opened his first restaurant in downtown New Orleans in 1990, few would have guessed the level of success that he would achieve in such a short period of time. Today, Emeril is the chef-proprietor of ten restaurants located in six major cities in the United States. His books have sold millions of copies throughout the country, and his nationally renowned television show continues to reach more than 85 million homes daily.

Aside from his love for cooking and sharing his passion with millions of fans, Emeril is proud to work exclusively with students in order stress the importance of education. Through his endowed scholarship fund, he has raised more than $2 million for students of JWU. His hope is to not only influence these students professionally, but to also have a positive impact on his alma mater. 

In addition to his scholarship program, Lagasse enjoys contributing his time, resources and passion to the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. Through the support of countless donors, partners, and corporate sponsors, the Foundation has raised millions of dollars for numerous children’s organizations throughout the country. By primarily focusing on those from disadvantaged circumstances, the Foundation seeks to inspire, mentor and enable all young people to realize their full creative and productive potential.