FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Member Applications for
San Francisco Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International LDEI-SF Now Open
Esteemed philanthropic organization empowering women leaders in the food, wine, and hospitality sectors now accepting applications for membership for 2024-2025 induction
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, March 12, 2024— The San Francisco Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI-SF) is pleased to announce that it is now welcoming nominations and applications for new members through May 31, 2024. The San Francisco chapter—comprised of women shaping the local food and wine industries—has served 35 years this year, as beacon of leadership, education, and philanthropy in the Bay Area and Northern California, and looks forward to continuing its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community with the 2024-2025 cohort.
All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply via the online form. Prospective members, whether nominated by existing LDEI-SF chapter members or self-nominating, are invited to apply directly to the organization. The introduction of self-nomination in 2021 underscores the chapter's dedication to equity and diversity in its membership selection process.
“The San Francisco Chapter remains steadfast in its mission to support women from diverse backgrounds in leadership roles across various facets of the hospitality industry, and each year our offering grows,” remarked Frankie Whitman, First Vice President and Membership Committee Chair of LDEI-SF. “We also award grants and scholarships to promote business development and offer important networking and mentorship opportunities. Our chapter eagerly anticipates welcoming a new cohort that will continue to drive our organization forward.”
LDEI-SF welcomes applications from women and non-binary people of all ages and backgrounds who are eager to contribute their expertise and passion to the chapter. Active members are encouraged to attend a minimum of two member events per year and to participate in the organization as volunteers, committee members, or chairs, host an event or serve on the Board of Directors. The LDEI-SF Board currently meets 12 times per year and sessions are open to all committee members and chairs.
To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Applicants are required to obtain a letter of recommendation from a current or retired Dame of the San Francisco Chapter. In cases where the candidate does not have a connection to a Dame and requires an introduction, the chapter will appoint a member to provide a recommendation.
For eligibility criteria and application details, visit the application page on the LDEI-SF website. Completed applications will be accepted now through May 31, 2024. The Membership Committee recommendation and the vote of the Board determine membership acceptance.
For any questions related to the application process, please contact LDEI-SF Membership Chair Frankie Whitman at frankiewhitman@gmail.com.
About Les Dames d’Escoffier International
LDEI is an international organization of women leaders who create a supportive culture in their communities to achieve excellence in the food, beverage, and hospitality fields. To do this, 2,500 members in 43 chapters worldwide provide leadership, educational opportunities, and philanthropy within their communities. For more information, visit LDEI.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @lesdamesintl and LinkedIn.
About Les Dames d’Escoffier International – San Francisco Chapter
The San Francisco chapter of LDEI, founded in 1989, celebrates the 35th year since its founding. The chapter provides programs and philanthropy to support its members and nurture the next generation of culinary leaders. More information on the San Francisco chapter of LDEI can be accessed at lesdamessf.org. Follow our chapter activities on Instagram @lesdamessf and on Facebook.
Media Contacts:
Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET
Communications Committee Chair, Les Dames d'Escoffier San Francisco Chapter
kcharles@charlescomm.com
415-730-0064
Katie Canfield, DipWSET
Communications Committee, Les Dames d'Escoffier San Francisco Chapter
katie@odonnell-lane.com
530-720-1138
