ABOUT US
Les Dames d’Escoffier International
Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) is a worldwide organization of women dedicated to creating a culture in the community that fosters excellence and promotes the achievement of women in culinary professions through educational and charitable activities. LDEI was founded in New York in 1976 by Carol Brock, a food reporter for the New York Daily News. At the time, there were few opportunities for women in the culinary arts, and there were no prominent women chefs or sommeliers. Brock saw a need to create an organization of professional leading women in the industry who would serve as role models and mentors to others. From its inception, the organization has been a membership-by-invitation, philanthropic organization that has provided education, networking opportunities and scholarship support. Overall, the organization has grown to more than 2,200 members in 37 chapters, with the newest chapters being chartered in Mexico, Des Moines, Iowa, and South Miami, Florida. We remain dedicated in our support of women through scholarships, educational programs, externships and networking.Our Hawaii Chapter
The LDEI Hawaii Chapter was founded in 2000, 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 more than 60 women includes professional chefs, restaurateurs, caterers, farmers, food retailers, event planners, cookbook authors, food journalists and historians, wine industry professionals, food publicists, culinary educators and hospitality executives.
Our Board
Jenn Marr, President
Clare Bobo, Vice President
Abigail Langlas, Secretary
Possie Badham, Treasurer
Gabrielle Maser, Director
Michelle Gomez, Director
Jocelyn Leigh, Director
Kristin Jackson, Co-President
