Top Houston Chefs Serve Up Global Feast at Feed the Soul Foundation Gala

Annual dinner honors culinary leaders and raises funds for hospitality scholarships

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Feed the Soul Foundation's second annual Heart & Soul Scholarship Dinner brought together award-winning chefs from Houston and beyond to serve a six-course, globally inspired meal at The Corinthian in downtown Houston. The event, chaired by Brandi and Brandon Carson and Sara and David Cordua, raised over $100,000 to support culinary and hospitality students nationwide.

Why it matters

The 'Nourish the Culture' theme of the gala reflects the Feed the Soul Foundation's mission to uplift the next generation of culinary talent and entrepreneurs by recognizing the deep cultural roots and community-building power of food. The event honored several Houston culinary leaders for their innovation, mentorship, and lasting impact.

The details

More than 240 guests enjoyed the multi-course dinner prepared by chefs including James Beard Award winner Thomas Bille, Top Chef alum Michelle Wallace, and local talents like Adrian Torres, Dominick Lee, Beatriz Martines, and Reginald Scott. Emcees Chelsea Edwards and Kim Castro presented awards to Frenchy's Sallie Creuzot for Culinary Impact and chefs Hugo Ortega and Mark Holley for the Chef Legacy Award.

  • The Feed the Soul Foundation's second annual Heart & Soul Scholarship Dinner took place on March 6, 2026.
  • The event surpassed its $100,000 fundraising goal.

The players

Feed the Soul Foundation

A nonprofit organization that supports culinary and hospitality students nationwide through scholarships and programming.

Thomas Bille

James Beard Award-winning chef of Spring's Belly of the Beast restaurant.

Sallie Creuzot

Owner of the iconic Frenchy's restaurant chain, honored with the Culinary Impact Award.

Hugo Ortega

Acclaimed Houston chef, honored with the Chef Legacy Award.

Mark Holley

Veteran Houston chef, honored with the Chef Legacy Award.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We were incredibly proud to celebrate the success of our second annual Heart & Soul Scholarship Dinner and to surpass our $100,000 fundraising goal.”

— Juana Collins, Executive Director, Feed the Soul Foundation

“The overwhelming support from our chefs, sponsors, partners and community ensures that we can continue investing in the next generation of culinary talent and help students pursue meaningful careers in hospitality. It was truly a night that nourished both culture and opportunity.”

— Juana Collins, Executive Director, Feed the Soul Foundation

What’s next

The Feed the Soul Foundation plans to continue its annual Heart & Soul Scholarship Dinner to support culinary and hospitality students.

The takeaway

The Feed the Soul Foundation's gala showcased Houston's vibrant culinary community and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of food and hospitality leaders, highlighting the deep cultural significance and community-building power of great food.