Connect | Contribute | Belong 

 

The Les Dames d’Escoffier North Carolina Chapter brings together engaged, generous members driven to make a difference. Through shared time, talent, and purpose, we champion women in our industries, uplift our communities, and create meaningful opportunities to connect and grow—fostering a strong sense of fulfillment and belonging.

 

Our Chapter is part of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), a global network of 2,600 women leaders across North America and Europe, dedicated to advancing women in food, beverage, and hospitality and strengthening our communities.

 

Our Chapter’s Mission

We are a philanthropic nonprofit organization of women leaders in North Carolina’s food, beverage, and hospitality industries. Through grants, service, and community partnerships, we support initiatives that feed our communities and empower the next generation of women in our industries to grow, lead, and thrive. 

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​Eligibility for Membership:

• Women with a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience actively working in food, beverage, nutrition, hospitality, agriculture, or other culinary-related fields, demonstrating leadership and accomplishment.

• A commitment to contribute time, talent, and financial support as an active member advancing our mission.

• Alignment with the mission, vision, and core values of Les Dames d’Escoffier International and the North Carolina Chapter.

• Adherence to LDEI’s ethical standards with full transparency regarding potential conflicts of interest.

• Obtain one letter of recommendation from a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (NC Chapter or another) or an experienced professional in the industry.

 

Membership Requirements:

• ​Serve on at least one (1) committee.

• Assist with or participate in Chapter fundraising events.

• Attend at least one (1) additional Chapter meeting or event per year (in-person or online). 

 

Benefits of Membership:

Connect

• Build lasting relationships with accomplished women in food, beverage, and hospitality through Chapter meetings, events, and committees. Stay engaged year-round through the private member Facebook group and local and international directories while raising your visibility within a powerful professional network.

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Give Back

• Make a meaningful impact in North Carolina communities by supporting the Chapter’s philanthropic efforts, including grants, donations, and in-kind service. Your involvement helps advance women in the industry and strengthen the communities we serve.

 

Learn

• Gain insight and inspiration from industry leaders through LDEI Live, the Annual Conference, and Chapter programming. Access exclusive member resources and tools and connect with Dames across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Mexico, and Italy.

 

Grow

• Develop your leadership skills and expand your professional reach by serving in officer or committee roles that help guide Chapter initiatives. Take advantage of scholarships and grants, including the LDEI Legacy Awards, to support your personal and professional growth.

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