Cochran Firm celebrates Black History Month

The Cochran Firm in Dallas kicked off its inaugural High School Black History Cooking Competition to celebrate Black History Month and the soul food traditions of African Americans. Select culinary programs from Dallas area high schools participated and six finalists crafted meals on February 19 at Cedar Hill High School.

Larry Taylor Jr., a Texas partner in the Cochran Firm, awarded the winner, Jhaniya Rodgers, of Cedar Hill High School, a $500 prize; runner-up, Keyonna Hickman, of Cedar Hill High School, a $250 prize; and third-place finisher Terry McGill, of Lincoln High School, a $250 prize.

“I’m honored to continue the legacy Johnnie L. Cochran has set by supporting and inspiring all youth to fulfill their professional dreams in all fields,” Taylor said in a press release. “It’s no doubt these students have culinary skills and potential star quality.”

Other competitors were Kaelyn Cruz, of Cedar Hill High School; Aerial White, of Lincoln High School; and Jamendra Glenn, of Lincoln High School.

The event was co-hosted by the Cedar Hill High School Culinary program and its instructor, chef Alex Goss.