About this Event
A Dillard University Homecoming Celebration
Friday, November 6, 2026 | 3:00–5:00 p.m. | Dillard University, Will W. Alexander Library
Dillard University proudly welcomes home distinguished alumnus Chef Edgar “Dook” Chase IV for a special Homecoming Weekend book talk celebrating his culinary journey, family legacy, and newly released cookbook, Dook Chase: A Chef’s Journey.
A 2004 Dillard graduate with a degree in Economics and Finance, Chef Dook is a fourth-generation chef, entrepreneur, and civic leader whose work bridges culinary excellence, business leadership, and cultural preservation. As co-owner of the legendary Dooky Chase Restaurant and president of Chase Hospitality Group, he continues the extraordinary legacy of his grandmother, the late Chef Leah Chase, while expanding his family's influence in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and alongside his late grandmother, the legendary Leah Chase, affectionately known as the ‘Queen of Creole Cuisine in the kitchens of Dooky Chase, Chef Dook brings a contemporary vision to New Orleans’ celebrated Creole traditions.
His new cookbook accompanies his 2026 WYES/PBS television series, Dook Chase: A Chef’s Journey, featuring recipes and stories that honor the people, history, and flavors that define New Orleans cuisine.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Dook serves as Board Chair of the New Orleans African American Museum and Chairman of Finance New Orleans, reflecting his dedication to cultural preservation and economic opportunity. In 2025, Dooky Chase Restaurant received the prestigious James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award.
Join us as Chef Dook returns to the Oaks to reflect on his inspiring journey from Dillard University student to nationally recognized chef, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador. In this special Homecoming conversation with Zella Palmer, Director of Dillard University’s Ray Charles Program, Chef Dook will share cherished memories, personal stories, and defining moments that have shaped his culinary career, while honoring the family legacy and New Orleans traditions that have made him one of the city’s treasured culinary voices.
Signed copies of Dook Chase: A Chef’s Journey will be available for purchase at the book talk in partnership with Community Book Store.
Celebrate Dillard University Homecoming, New Orleans culinary heritage, and the power of a Dillard education to shape leaders who make a lasting impact.
Event venue & nearby stays
Will W. Alexander Library, 2601 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.