House Resolution No. ___ commends Patricia Cooke for being named the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) Education Foundation's 2024 ProStart Educator of Excellence. ProStart is a two-year culinary arts and restaurant management curriculum aimed at encouraging young individuals to pursue careers in the restaurant industry, with over 2,000 students participating in Louisiana alone. Cooke has dedicated more than twenty years to teaching ProStart at Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge, where her mentorship has led many students to successful careers in food service and hospitality.

In addition to her teaching, Cooke has played a significant role in mentoring fellow ProStart educators throughout Louisiana, enhancing the program for all students. Her extensive experience in the restaurant industry, including roles as a kitchen and operations manager, has greatly informed her teaching approach. Cooke was honored at the "Serving the Future-Celebrating Careers in Hospitality" event on March 6, 2024, and is also a candidate for the National ProStart Educator of Excellence Award, which will be presented in April 2024. The resolution expresses the House of Representatives' appreciation for her contributions and wishes her continued success in her endeavors.