Marie Warren

Staff Writer

mmwarren@valdosta.edu
The loud bustle of a kitchen in motion preparing for a feast, here on campus brought to life the hunger pains of having missed lunch.
The man of the house is known as the “Fried Chicken King.” His name is Earnest Duncan and he has worked as a chef here at VSU for the last 38 years. Cooking is his passion and he loves it. Who is this man who has been cooking for us for such a long time?
Duncan started cooking at the age of ten when his uncle asked him to fry up some livers. The compliments he received changed his life forever. He started cooking and watching different ways that people worked.
While watching Duncan prepare his meal he explained all the things that have inspired him. His grandmother and his Aunt have been a huge inspiration in his life. While making meals on “the fifth Sunday” of every month he has learned over the years how to whet the appetite of others. In a sense, you could say that he’s a food match maker. Knowing how to cook for people is what he is good at, but knowing how to make good food match the appetite of people is what he is the best at.
Duncan has catered to people over the years and enjoys his life. He takes pride in his work and shares this with the other employees.
Barbara Davis explained that she loves working with Duncan. That the two of them, and Mrs. Pat Adams, have been working there since the 1970’s. Since they have all known each other for so long, they have formed a family of their own.
“Working with small groups involving the catering business you learn how to work with each other in a tight spot. Close courters. We have a family here.” Debbie Conrad said.
Duncan said if he had one hero here on campus it would be Debbie Conrad.
“Debbie has supported me with anything that I need.” Duncan said.
When he was approached about the idea of his retirement he said that it never entered his mind.
“I love the company here, and the great experiences he’s had here have always impressed him.”
Duncan recently had the privilege of cooking with the president of the university and thoroughly enjoyed this encounter.
So if your ever hungry or need any home cooking, go and see Earnest Duncan, he won’t only include you into his family but he’ll feed you too.