Scholarships From Les Dames d’Escoffier

Krista Kanapaux (2022 recipient)

LDEI is an amazing group of women who have showed me that when women come together, we have so many connections and opportunities opened up to us. I received a scholarship from LDEI in 2022 as I am a Hospitality and Tourism Management Student at Trident Technical College. I have put this money towards books needed for my classes and it has been a tremendous help. The women I have met are wonderful leaders who give knowledge and grace to those paving their way in this industry. I encourage you to apply for a scholarship which will help open up more doors and connections with such great women.

Kelly Kleisner (2022 recipient):

I have worked in the hospitality industry for 20 years and going back to school was a big undertaking. I knew that continuing my education in health, wellness and nutrition would help me build a secondary career in food and beverage. This added expense was one I am determined to take on without the use of loans. Receiving the Les Dames scholarship helped to get me one step closer to my degree! Having the support of women in the industry is paramount to being successful. I feel honored, proud and grateful for being chosen as a recipient of the Les Dames d'Escoffier International scholarship. I would encourage any woman in the field to never stop learning and continue pursuing their educational dreams!

Lauren Furey (3-time recipient): 

Les Dames d'Escoffier Charleston Chapter is at the core of why I love Charleston. As a three-time scholarship winner, I learned that LDEI is serious and passionate about lifting others.The Dames work together for the greater good of the community. During my apprenticeship with Grand Dame Nathalie in her home kitchen, she taught me all about cooking, entertaining and ingredients. She made me feel welcome, important, and empowered. The LDEI scholarship is more than a scholarship. It promotes long-lasting mentorship and friendship.

Carrie Larson (2016 recipient): 

A Les Dames d’Escoffier Charleston Scholarship for Education supported my effort to attend an international conference and symposium, Terra Madre, as a delegate for the volunteer-led organization Slow Food Charleston. Receiving financial assistance from such a distinguished group of female leaders validated my time spent volunteering for an organization I believe in, and the global experience supported by LDEI forever changed my life and career by emboldening my desire to contribute to our Lowcountry foodshed.