Meet our first fellow
Maximus towns
Maximus Towns is proud to serve as the First Fellow of the James Culinary Foundation—a driven and passionate young chef whose journey reflects the heart of our mission.
At just 17 years old, Max is already demonstrating a strong commitment to pursuing a future in the culinary arts, with a growing passion for fine dining, technique, and professional kitchen environments.
A Student with Purpose
Max is a rising senior at Salmen High School in Louisiana, where he continues to balance his academic responsibilities with his dedication to developing his culinary skills.
From an early interest in cooking to a focused pursuit of excellence, Max has shown both the discipline and curiosity needed to succeed in a highly competitive industry.
Summer 2026: A Transformational Season
This summer marks a major milestone in Max’s journey, as he steps into both real-world culinary environments and elite training opportunities.
Max will attend the prestigious Culinary Institute of America Summer Experience, where he will:
Train in professional-grade kitchens
Learn foundational and advanced culinary techniques
Gain exposure to fine dining standards and presentation
Connect with peers and instructors from across the country