From New Orleans to Paris: Krystle Pitcher Wins the Laurence Rua Memorial Scholarship

This fall, Krystle Pitcher will take her culinary journey international—thanks to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awarded through the Laurence Rua Memorial Scholarship. Sponsored by Sodexo Live!, the scholarship honors the memory of longtime team member Laurence Rua, who passed away in 2024. The award grants one outstanding NOCHI student the chance to train at the prestigious Lenôtre Culinary Arts School in Paris, France.

Krystle was selected through a competitive review process, standing out for her commitment, growth, and vision for the future.

For her, attending NOCHI was the best option to pursue her dream of becoming a chef while staying rooted in New Orleans. But the road wasn’t always easy. “The pace was intense,” she admits. “You get told something once and you’re expected to master it. I had nightmares about dishes!”

Still, she kept going; fueled by a love for food, a deep respect for the craft, and a desire to one day open her own café. Through NOCHI, she gained not only technical training but confidence navigating a professional kitchen and working with real-world equipment. The Paris experience will give her an international edge as she continues building her culinary career.

Krystle’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and soon, Paris. Bon voyage, Chef!