Dr. Jessica B. Harris, a renowned educator and culinary historian, was born in Queens, New York, in 1948. She earned her A.B. in French from Bryn Mawr College, followed by a master’s degree from Queens College and a Ph.D. from New York University. Dr. Harris has had a long academic career at Queens College, where she now serves as an associate professor in the English department. An expert in African and Caribbean cuisines, she has authored several influential books, including The Welcome Table and Iron Pots and Wooden Spoons. Dr. Harris has received numerous accolades, such as the Heritage Award from Black Culinarians and the Food Hero award from Eating Well Magazine, and has appeared on programs like Good Morning America and The Today Show.