LRA Education Foundation

10/19/2026

We’re cooking up something special for 2027, and you won’t want to miss it!

10/15/2026

Throwdown for the Future was created to benefit the future generations of the restaurant industry and our Louisiana ProStart Program students. The event wouldn't have been possible without the help of some of those students who worked alongside some of the best chefs and restaurateurs in New Orleans.

Jaylen Glapion, New Orleans Career Center
Tyler Munson, Young Audiences Charter Schools
DeKyra Jackson and Aamiyah Clarks, John Ehret High School
Ahmed Mohamed, Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy

10/14/2026

Last night, Throwdown for the Future welcomed more than 200 guests for an evening of food, drinks from local restaurants, and prizes. Hosted by Parkway Bakery and Tavern General Manager and LRA Education Foundation Board Member Justin Kennedy, the event raised over $40,000 for the LRAEF to support the next generation of Louisiana’s restaurant and hospitality professionals.

Thank you to the restaurants that helped make Throwdown for the Future possible.

Dickie Brennan & Co | Dooky Chase's Restaurant | Galatoire's Restaurant - New Orleans | Napoleon House | Miss Shirley's Chinese | Acme Oyster House - Metairie | Delacroix | Commander's Palace | Copeland's of New Orleans | New Orleans Ice Cream | Café Du Monde | Jewel of the South

10/14/2026

This past Monday, the St. Tammany Parish Public School System hosted a Career and College Expo featuring ProStart Program students from Fontainebleau High School, Mandeville High School, Covington High School (Covington, Louisiana), and Lakeshore High School. The students catered the event and spent time sharing the impact of the ProStart program with potential new students.

10/12/2026

10/09/2026

High school students learn culinary, life skills in culinary class led by dedicated chef bit.ly/3VVjN9n

Through the EBR Office of Workforce Development, under the watchful guidance of Chef Ashley Woods, high school students now have the opportunity to complete a two-year culinary training program.

10/06/2026

10/01/2026

09/30/2026

Parkway After Hours Party generated $3,000 for the LRA Education Foundation through a winning bid during the Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. Auctions in August fundraiser. Parkway Bakery and Tavern’s Justin Kennedy, who also serves as LRAEF Director, came up with this unique way to give back, and we’re incredibly grateful for his generosity and continued support of the Foundation. LRAEF Executive Director Jen Killian and LRA President/CEO Stan Harris accepted the check from the Gulf Coast Bank team.