When Haden Scurlock first came to Riverside Academy this year, he had no idea his great-grandmother was sort of a Rebel legend.

His grandfather’s mom was Mrs. Stella Roussel, the much-loved former cafeteria worker who is memorialized with a sign on the wall. Her family also credits her with first serving the original recipe for Chili Mac, the noodle and beef combination that has become a Riverside Academy favorite. It has been a Scurlock family favorite for a while.

Mrs. Roussel worked in Riverside’s cafeteria from 1972 until 2005 as the head cafeteria cook, creating recipes that are still eaten today.  It was during this time that RA band director Darryl Clement brought her the idea for a dish he had eaten in Texas that included chili and either potatoes or macaroni. That became Chili Mac.

Haden was impressed to see the plaque to his great grandmother and said it makes him feel proud.

“My grandma used to be the main cook around the house until she passed the recipes to my grandpa,” he said. 

 Haden said he eats the dish every time it is served and even when his family cooks it at home. 

Current cafeteria director Lee Dupepe said Chili Mac is a staple menu item at Riverside.

“I think the alumni liked the chili mac more than the current students,” Dupepe said. “It was something different from what they were use to eating here.”