Name and Title:  Richard Petty, Executive Chef, Author

What do you do and why? I am a chef. I’m from a family of great cooks and as a teenager I dreamed of becoming a great chef.  I’ve followed my dream and had a fabulous career. I do this this work because I have a great passion for the fine art of cooking.

What mark have you left on Black history? The mark I’ve left on black history is that I’ve worked my entire professional career as a leader in the culinary arts.  I have always strived to promote black culture as a chef. My goal has always been to bring an awareness of African American Chefs, both past and present, to the people.  I wanted the world to know that we are chefs, cooking in all types of venues and media.  My book, Beyond Soul Food – Modern American Heritage Cuisine is the culmination of my efforts to document this.

Why is celebrating Black History important to you? Celebrating Black History allows me to reflect on our great culture and contributions that have been made by African Americans, especially in the field of cooking. I’ll like to say thank you to the great chef Patrick Clark, who mentored me.  And to Leah Chase, as well as the great Edna Lewis, Nat Burton, Steve Simmons – all great people who worked in the best restaurants and hotels as chefs.

Who or what do you honor most in Black History? Right now I would have to say President Barrack Obama.  I think he has made a profound impact on black history in the country and the world.

Website and social media links:

• www.beyondsoulfood.com
• www.facebook.com/chefrichardpetty
• www.twitter.com/chefrpetty

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