​Father Brophy, Coach Cooley to cook for students in ‘Dominican Iron Chef’

​Rev. Justin Brophy, O.P., assistant chaplain, will face men’s basketball Head Coach Ed Cooley in a defense of his “Dominican Iron Chef” title on Thursday, Sept. 25, in Raymond Dining Hall at Providence College.

The cook-off will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Students will be able to sample fare prepared by both chefs and vote for their favorite. Guests who pay for their meals also will be able to take part.

Father Brophy, who is also a special lecturer in theology, will prepare chicken waffle sliders. Cooley is likely to offer a macaroni and cheese dish, according to Stuart Gerhardt, general manager for Sodexo, PC’s food service provider.

Two years ago, Father Brophy and Rev. R. Gabriel Pivarnik, O.P., vice president for mission and ministry, assistant professor of theology, and director of the Center for Catholic and Dominican Studies, took part in the first Iron Chef challenge. Students narrowly selected Father Brophy as the winner after balloting.

Father Brophy said he was eager for another challenge. It was Gerhardt’s idea to appeal to the coaching staff, and Cooley accepted.

Both will wear aprons and chef’s hats during the competition, which will be broadcast live at www.providence.edu/live. Returning in the role of master of ceremonies will be College Chaplain Rev. James Cuddy, O.P. ’98. Read his blog post on Dominican Iron Chef.

​— Vicki-Ann Downing