Just in time for Women’s History Month, the Atlanta Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) has opened applications for its 2025 scholarship awards. The annual scholarship program supports aspiring female professionals pursuing careers in hospitality, culinary arts, beverage management, farming, agriculture, and related fields. Applications will be accepted from March 15 to May 15, 2025, and the application link can be accessed at the chapter website www.ldeiatlanta.org.
To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- Identify as female and be pursuing a degree in culinary or pastry arts, food science, farming/agriculture, beverage management, hospitality, gastronomy, dietetics, or nutrition at an accredited educational institution.
- Be a legal resident of Georgia or accepted to/enrolled in a Georgia-based school.
- Be attending their program full-time.
- Use awarded funds at the designated educational institution.
Scholarship recipients will be selected based on merit, financial need, and community service. Applicants may reapply each year they are seeking a degree. The number of scholarships awarded and total funds available vary annually based on LDEI Atlanta’s fundraising efforts.
Since 2001, LDEI Atlanta has awarded Scholarships for Education and Continuing Education Grants to outstanding female applicants. Following a rigorous and competitive selection process, recipients will be eligible for a minimum award of $1,000 to support their academic and professional goals.
Graduating high school seniors who meet all general scholarship criteria will also be considered for the Culinary Futures Scholarship—a need-based award funded in partnership with the International Housewares Foundation. The award amount varies annually, ranging from $16,000 to $30,000, and is disbursed as needed while the student remains enrolled and in good standing in an undergraduate program.
Former Culinary Futures Scholarship recipient Akira Thomas shared how the award influenced her educational journey. “It has been a transformative experience for me. It eased the financial challenges of pursuing my education at Johnson & Wales University and confirmed my passion and potential in culinary arts. The support has motivated me to push through challenges and take full advantage of opportunities to grow as a future chef. There have been plenty of days when I have wanted to stay in bed or give up, but knowing that (Les Dames) is counting on me pushes me past all those thoughts. My first semester is just the beginning. I look forward to graduating and making them proud.”
Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) is a distinguished organization of women leaders in food, beverage, and hospitality dedicated to education, philanthropy, and professional excellence. The Atlanta Chapter supports the next generation of female culinary and hospitality professionals through mentorship, networking, and scholarship opportunities.
