I help to bring this key history to life as a culinary chronicler and nonfiction storyteller — with an end goal of placing historically accurate narratives back into the public discourse where they should’ve always been — to help fill the vast void of what’s not taught in classrooms at all levels nationwide, globally. Now more than ever, we all need to know the greatness that every group has brought (and still brings) to the nation's table, and ideally to be much more grateful for each other and those who came before us.

I love bringing hidden, rarely told stories to light and believe in an inclusive narrative of modern American food that acknowledges and appreciates the contributions of African American Ancestors....who all Americans are indebted to for bringing so much flavor (literally and figuratively) to this nation. Building upon the cultivating genius of indigenous peoples combined with the brilliance of enslaved Africans — captured, debased and constrictedly transported by early European enslaving settlers, to create this New World....

Inclusive food history can both influence and inspire everyone from the most decorated chefs to the everyday home cooks....

The James Hemings Society (JHS) is a nonprofit culinary arts and education organization inspired by its namesake who was the enslaved man who became America's first classically trained Chef de Cuisine, in France, at the behest of his owner, Thomas Jefferson. JHS is leading the charge to remember, uphold and continue black culinary contributions to the creation of iconic American cookery, brewing and distillation. JHS is dedicated to educating and informing the public on the profound and prolific impact of African American foodways nationwide and globally. We endeavor to reverse the historical omissions of the black chefs, cooks, caterers, farmers, brewmasters, distillers, etc. who were the foundation of professional cookery and fine dining throughout America. With chef Hemings life’s work and legacy as a portal, JHS honors an inclusive American culinary history and Jame's legacy in particular while also showcasing and supporting the brilliant work of today’s contemporary African American chefs/caterers/cooks, bartenders/brewers/distillers, food historians, writers, culinary curators, etc.