Last night, Les Dames d’Escoffier New York (LDNY) awarded their annual culinary scholarships. Twenty-two scholarships worth a total of $92,000 were awarded to women who are pursuing careers in the food industry. Four ICE students were among the young culinary professionals recognized.
Pastry & Baking Arts student Christina Ha was awarded the Sylvia Schur Memorial Scholarship while Culinary Arts student Anne Petito, Pastry & Baking Arts student Nicole Rodriguez and Culinary Management student Jessica Butler (who also completed the Culinary Arts program) also took home scholarships.
Les Dames d’Escoffier is a network of women who are working in a variety of food professions. Each scholarship recipient is paired up with a LDNY member who acts as a mentor. ICE’s own Recreational Division Program Director, Kelly Ann Hargrove is among the mentors helping the scholarship recipients navigate the food industry. In a testament to the success of the program, one of the ICE student winners from last year, Mariya Yufest, was hired by Abigail Kirsh and worked at the event. LDNY President Beth Allen said, “The scholarship and mentoring programs are two of Les Dames d’Escoffier New York’s most important commitments to supporting careers of women in the culinary and hospitality professions. This year we had more than 68 applicants. The recipients selected represent many backgrounds and diverse interests, including women both starting careers and those who are changing careers.”
We are certain these four ICE students have the dedication and passion to find success in a culinary career. Congratulations to Cristina, Jessica, Anne, and Nicole!
