What We Do

Our Mission

LDEI is a philanthropic organization of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality whose mission is education, scholarship and philanthropy.

The chapter was founded in 1996, and since that time has grown to become a highly-regarded asset to members, a frontrunner in chapter accomplishment within the organization, and a philanthropic leader in our community.

Our membership of over 100 women includes professional chefs, restaurateurs, caterers, farmers, food retailers, event planners, cookbook authors, food journalists and historians, winemakers and wine industry professionals, food publicists, culinary educators and hospitality executives.

Our Members:

  • Share knowledge

  • Support fellow members, and

  • Provide leadership, educational opportunities and philanthropic events for the larger community

The Specific Purposes of the Chapter are:

  • To promote the understanding, appreciation, and knowledge of food, wine and other beverages, nutrition, the arts of the table and other fields as they relate to these disciplines.

  • To promote the highest standards in the preparation, supply, and service of food, wine and other beverages.

  • To work cooperatively with members by providing advice and assistance in all matters pertaining to the chosen disciplines.

  • To promote the education and advancement of, and to offer advice and assistance to women in careers in the chosen disciplines.

  • To disseminate such information and advice as advances the purposes of the Chapter.