With their most recent round of grants and scholarships, the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International has given nearly a quarter of a million dollars to women across the state of Alabama pursuing culinary-
related careers. At an awards ceremony on May 18, 2025, the chapter awarded a record $47,000.
Les Dames Escoffier’s literal translation means the ladies of Ecoffier. Auguste Escoffier (1846–1935), was known as “The Chef of Kings” and “The King of Chefs” and considered one
the most innovative chefs in culinary history, while his philanthropic deeds were just as inspirational. This worldwide society of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality has
a mission of education, advocacy, mentoring
and philanthropy.
The Birmingham chapter, founded in 2013, has 112 members and in addition to grants
and scholarships, the chapter funds projects
for high school students, helps grow women-
owned businesses and assists like-minded
nonprofits with food-related work in our
communities.
This year’s Entrepreneurial
Grant winners were:
Nedra Moore / Creations Galore and Moore
Creations Galore and Moore is a farm-to-table
bakery located in downtown Calera.
Jennifer Dunbar / Lovelight Farms
The 12-acre market vegetable farm in Wilsonville
is focused on growing clean, healthy food through sustainable growing methods.
Toni North / Tasteful Touch Catering, LLC
Tasteful Touch Catering, based in Pinson, is
built on Toni’s passion for creating tasteful
culinary experiences.
Alexis Kimbrough / Herban Soul Café
Herban Soul Café is an herb-based brand on a
mission to shake up wellness by revolutionizing the
way customers experience herbs and tea-based
food and beverage options.
College Scholarships
this year went to:
Irene Arbaca / Jefferson State
Community College
Alanis Stansberry / University of Alabama
at Birmingham
Emma Melcher / Auburn University
Joy M. Banks / University of Alabama
at Birmingham
Anna Benson / Auburn University
Kayleigh Grant / Samford University
