LCI Alumni Spotlight: Derek Lee

From the age of 12 Derek Lee knew he had a passion to cook and create. This appetite to craft, design, and lead has led Lee across a variety of occupations and experiences; ultimately bringing him to and through the halls of Louisiana Culinary Institute.

From serving in the military to teaching to working in a warehouse, Lee has walked an eclectic path that has delivered him into a role drives him. With aspirations to open and own his restaurant one day, Lee is using the skills and relationships that he developed at LCI to go beyond thriving as a culinary artist, but is passionate about sharing his experiences to coach, mentor, and lead.

When Lee knew it was time pursue his education in the culinary arts, he briefly considered Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts; but it was his initial experience with the staff and students at LCI that made the decision to enroll at Louisiana Culinary Institute a simple one. “A lot of people going there had a lot of positive things to say,” says Lee. The networking opportunities at LCI were also attractive to Lee. “So many great local chefs were leading restaurants in the area and are still connected to the school.”

Throughout his time at LCI, it was the relationships forged with his fellow chefs that stood as the best part of his education. For anyone considering a culinary education, or getting started in the industry, Lee offers these words of wisdom, “Be humble. You may have the knowledge, but it’s how you add to it with experiences from other kitchens. Build on that knowledge to become a leader, and learn to follow before you try to lead.”

Today Lee is a sous chef at Olive Garden. Designing menus and creating flavor combinations is one of his favorite aspects of his job. LCI planted different ideas for creating intriguing flavor combinations, and he’s been passionate about it ever since. Lee and his wife also own Meraki LLC, a a private dining and catering company. In addition to the creative side of his profession, Lee strives to be a role model, essentially a big brother for the people around him who need help. Sharing his experiences to help someone overcome whatever challenge they may be facing drives Lee.