Food Network Chef Jeff Henderson Headlines STLCC Foundation Gala

January 30, 2026

Posted by STLCC in News Resources 

The STLCC Foundation is honored to present its 18th annual Falling in Love in Five Courses Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis on Saturday, February 21. Cocktails begin at 6 p.m., with dinner served at 7 p.m.

Gwen Mizell, Ameren senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, is serving as the 2026 Falling in Love Honorary Chair.

“Ameren is a strong supporter of the St. Louis Community College system and the key role it plays in creating an impactful pathway to higher educational attainment for students across the region,” said Jo-Ann Digman, executive director, STLCC Foundation.

This exquisite culinary event will showcase award-winning Chef Jeff Henderson who will craft a remarkable dining experience. The evening will also feature inspiring talks from students and alumni, along with both live and silent auctions.

Henderson is an award-winning chef, New York Times bestselling author, television personality and one of the most inspirational figures in the culinary world. He made history as the first African-American executive chef at Caesars Palace where he was named Las Vegas Chef of the Year, and later served as executive chef at the prestigious Café Bellagio.

Formally trained in classical French cuisine, Henderson honed his craft in elite kitchens including the Hotel Bel-Air, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills and Coronado Island Marriott. Beyond the kitchen, Henderson founded The Chef Jeff Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated men and women through mentorship, job training and second-chance opportunities in the culinary arts. His bestselling memoir Cooked: My Journey from the Streets to the Stove and his Food Network series of the same name brought this mission to life.

“The funds raised from this event will significantly impact the lives of our students, particularly those in our acclaimed culinary and hospitality studies program,” said Jeff L. Pittman, chancellor, STLCC. “The St. Louis community has generously supported this fundraiser and helps ensure our students can pursue their educational dreams and achieve their full potential.”

Since 1984, the STLCC Foundation has provided essential financial support for tuition, books, supplies, transportation, college programs, and student emergency funding to help students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

For more information and to register, visit the Falling in Love in Five Courses Gala page.