Eagle Dining’s very own Executive Chef Joshua Cathey will represent Southern Miss and Aramark Collegiate Hospitality at a national competition this summer after winning the southern Region title in March.
Cathey, a USM alumnus and Hattiesburg native, competed against chefs from across the South at Auburn University. This is where he wowed judges with his pan-seared chicken breast atop toasted parmesan and rosemary orzo, accompanied by wilted spinach, honey Dijon pan sauce, pickled radish and a crispy smoked paprika twill.
“It means the world to me to be able to represent Southern Miss and Eagle Dining on a national stage for a second time,” Cathey said. “Many people know that I am a proud graduate of USM and Hattiesburg High School.”
This marks Cathey’s second time advancing to nationals after previously winning the South Region 2023. He has served as Eagle Dining’s executive chef since 2021, combining creativity, community outreach and a deep love for southern cuisine. He began his culinary career in catering at Lake Terrace Convention Center in 2010 and joined Aramark Collegiate Hospitality in 2016.
Cathey said his inspiration for the Aramark Culinary Excellence (ACE) competition dish stemmed from both limitation and creativity. The competitors were given one whole chicken and a limited list of ingredients.
“Knowing this, I had to be able to produce four portions of a complete dish in one hour,” Cathey said. “I wanted to keep the plating simple yet add some elements that would make a vibrant entrée. I always try to incorporate some southern flavor and flair to any meal that I present.”
Cathey discovered his love for food at a young age. He’s known he wanted to do something with food since the age of six. Growing up, he began to realize how much the hospitality industry had to offer and how the meaning expanded beyond just working in a kitchen.
Beyond the kitchen, Cathey mentors local students through culinary boards, cooking demonstrations, and campus tours. He hopes to inspire the next generation to pursue their passions and to continue to represent the city well.
Cathey advises students interested in culinary arts and creative careers.
“My message has always been to not limit yourself just to what you see around you,” he said. “Learn, explore, develop and invest in yourself. Then make an effort to reach back and do the same for someone else. Know that success is not given. But for those willing to do the work, it can be extremely rewarding.”
The National ACE competition will take place later this summer, where Cathey will once again bring Southern flavor to the table—this time, on a national stage.
