At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), we are shaped by the people who show up for this community with care, intention, and heart. Chef Elle Simone Scott was one of those people.
Elle was a chef, educator, advocate, and mentor. She believed deeply in the power of food to bring people together, especially during life’s most vulnerable moments. Through her voice and generosity, Elle helped countless people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
A life centered on purpose
With more than 20 years of experience in the culinary world, Elle Simone Scott built a career rooted in purpose. Equity, access, and opportunity were at the center of everything she did.
She founded SheChef to support women chefs of color and made history as the first Black woman to serve as a regular on-air test cook and host on America’s Test Kitchen. Elle was also a food stylist, culinary producer, podcast host, and bestselling author.
Her leadership extended into education and community service, where she mentored students, supported scholarship programs, and volunteered with organizations focused on empowerment and advocacy.
Advocacy through community and connection
After her ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2016, Elle chose to use her platform to support others navigating the disease. As a longtime volunteer with NOCC, she helped raise awareness about ovarian cancer symptoms and encouraged women to trust themselves, listen to their bodies, and ask questions.
Elle shared her voice generously across the NOCC community. She spoke at events, recorded educational videos, and showed up in countless other ways. As a beloved emcee for Together in TEAL, she brought an encouraging presence and unmistakable energy, drawing people in and making sure every participant felt connected to the cause and to one another.
A legacy that lives on
Elle passed away in January 2026, but her spirit and impact live on. Through her leadership, generosity, and love for others, Chef Elle Simone Scott helped build a stronger, more compassionate ovarian cancer community. We are forever grateful for her life and the impact she made.
Continuing Elle’s legacy
Chef Elle Simone Scott created a cookbook in partnership with NOCC to support others navigating ovarian cancer. We are honored to share this work and carry her vision forward.
What you can do right now
- Continuing chef Elle’s legacy: Learn more about the Seasoned with Strength cookbook.
- Need help with meals during treatment? Apply for NOCC’s free meal delivery program.
- Make an impact in your community: Explore our volunteer opportunities.
- Need emotional or peer support? Connect through NOCC’s Support Services.
