Black History Month 2024: African Americans and the Arts

The 2024 theme of Black History Month is "African Americans and the Arts," honoring the way art has been integral for preserving memory, history, empowerment, and cultural expression for Black communities. The impact Black women have had on American food and culture has been immense, yet their contributions have often been overlooked and underappreciated. This February, we encourage everyone to join us in celebrating Black women in the culinary arts, starting with Sodexo Live! Executive Chef Desiree Neal at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Chef Desi has always had one foot in the kitchen. As a child, she grew up cooking with her father and grandmother and now oversees all culinary operations in the Virginia Beach Convention Center. "This is all I've ever done," laughed Chef Desi. "No day is ever the same." Despite preparing event menus for groups of 8 to over 3,000 every day, Chef Desi spends much of her time in the kitchen even when she's not at work. She can be found in local soup kitchens or in her church kitchen, cooking for the community. "This year, my goal is to double up on giving back," said Chef Desi. 

For Chef Desi, food also plays an essential role in preserving cultural identity. "It's more than sitting down to share a meal. It's about the importance of tradition and passing down recipes. Cooking is a form of storytelling." From trying to perfect her Native American grandmother's fried corn to cooking with her nieces and nephews, the kitchen has always been the place where memories are shared and made. 

It's been almost 20 years since Chef Desi applied to the Convention Center as a part-time meat carver. Now, as Executive Chef, Chef Desi focuses on developing people as much as menus. "Mentorship is part of a chef's role in the kitchen. My expectations extend beyond job performance. I want to help the next generation gain new insights and expand their knowledge." Mentoring also provides a sense of community and support, which is especially important for young chefs facing unique challenges and barriers as they navigate their careers. Investing in the growth and success of emerging Black chefs is crucial in establishing a more inclusive, just, and dynamic culinary industry. 

"I've absolutely faced challenges as a Black woman in the kitchen. Throughout my career, I've had to remind myself that I deserve this." So far, the most memorable moment of her career was cooking for and serving President Barack Obama at the 2013 Presidential Inauguration. "I made sure that was the best veggie platter I ever made," she laughed. "It was an experience I'll never forget."