Students, faculty, and food lovers gathered at Howard University for an afternoon of history, storytelling, and flavor as renowned culinary historian and author Dr. Jessica B. Harris headlined a special "Beyond the Plate Educational Session" Wednesday, Nov. 13. Hosted by Aramark Collegiate Hospitality and Howard University, the event featured a lecture, book signing, and a culinary tasting that celebrated the deep-rooted connections between African food traditions and global cuisine.

Known for her groundbreaking work tracing the culinary journeys of the African Diaspora, Harris captivated the audience with stories that linked the origins of African ingredients to the soul of American cooking. 

“I’m delighted to be able to share with Howard students some tales and recipes that will demonstrate some of the ways that the African continent and the United States are connected on the plate,” said Harris.

Her remarks reflected the theme of cultural continuity, charting how foods carried across the Atlantic during the slave trade evolved into some of America’s most beloved dishes.

Following the lecture, guests enjoyed a tasting curated in partnership with Aramark chefs, featuring Nigerian and Ghanaian jollof rice, a dish celebrated across West Africa. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet Harris during a signing of her acclaimed book, "High on the Hog," which inspired the award-winning Netflix series. Rashad Young, Howard’s senior vice president and chief administrative officer, emphasized the university’s commitment to integrating cultural education into campus life. 

“Today’s event highlighted the richness and cultural significance of culinary influences across the global diaspora," said Young. "The university wants to ensure these events are an important part of students’ dining experiences.”