The 2025 Belk Distinguished Lecture, featuring acclaimed food writer and Watauga County native Sheri Castle, took place on Thursday, July 17.
The event began with a fundraising luncheon at 11:30 a.m. in the Grandview Ballroom, followed by Sheri’s keynote address. The talk was centered on the theme “Welcome Home, Let’s Eat.” Her talk explored the meaning of home and the powerful role food plays in connecting us to it. Sheri reflected fondly on her upbringing in Boone and how the library helped spark her lifelong love of cookbooks that would lead to where she is today.
After the lecture which featured a lively Q & A, Sheri participated in a book signing of her cookbook “The Southern Garden Cookbook”.
The event was a warm celebration, infused with delicious food, childhood memories, and a reunion for all who call Boone home.
Sheri Castle speaking at the 2025 BDL
