Les Dames d'Escoffier announces Kentucky as one of six new chapters

Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) is adding Kentucky as one of six new chapters to join its organization of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality professions. The other chapters include Ann Arbor, Mich.; North Carolina; Portland, Ore.; Sacramento, Calif.; and Mexico City.

“There are now 2,011 Dames in 36 chapters worldwide working to further the mission of providing educational opportunities for women and philanthropic support to the communities they serve,” said LDEI president Lori Willis.

The Kentucky selection process began in May at an informal gathering at Sullivan University’s National Center for Hospitality campus when celebrated Southern author and chef Nathalie Dupree and Willis visited. The National Board of Directors has accepted 44 charter members for the new Kentucky chapter.

The Kentucky Board of Directors includes:
· President: Jamie Estes, Estes Public Relations
· Vice President: Michele Bowling, West Baden and French Lick Casino & Resort
· Secretary: Elizabeth Weimer, SiteSearch LLC
· Treasurer: Lisa Windhorst, MeetingWorks
· Member-at-Large/Scholarship: Judy Schad, Capriole Goat Farm
· Member-at-Large/Scholarship: Katie Payne, Sullivan University’s National Center for Hospitality Studies
· Membership: Judith Hollis, Hollis Jones & Associates

“We were delighted to be selected to create a chapter of this prestigious international organization,” said Estes. “Kentucky has an abundance of talented women in the culinary, beverage and hospitality industries and LDEI Kentucky will give us a forum to network. Our mission is also to provide community support on food related issues that impact our communities throughout the state.”

LDEI is an invitation-only organization based on specific qualifications and experience. Please contact membership chair Judy Hollis at Judy@hollisjones.com if you are interested in learning more about requirements.

About Les Dames d’Escoffier International LDEI is the only organization of its kind; a worldwide philanthropic society of professional women in the fields of food, fine beverage and hospitality. The invitation-only membership is highly diversified and reflects the multi-faceted fields of contemporary gastronomy and hospitality. The organization includes over 2,011 members in 36 chapters worldwide committed to improving the lives of women by providing leadership, educational opportunities and hosting philanthropic events within the communities they serve. For more information, visit LDEI.org.