
Who We Are
Les Dames d’Escoffier, BC Chapter is a non-profit organization of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality. We support women across British Columbia through scholarships, mentorship and community initiatives.
Our members bring experience from across these sectors and a shared commitment to helping other women build their careers and become leaders.
As a chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, we are guided by these principles:
Philanthropy:
We are committed to creating lasting change in our communities through focused philanthropy.
Diversity:
We celebrate the value of differences among people and cultures throughout the world, in our communities and in our Chapters.
Leadership and Professional Development:
We are committed to life-long learning, mentoring, career advancement and professional development for our members.
Professional Excellence:
We subscribe to the highest standards of professional conduct, ethics and integrity.
Innovation:
We are committed to assuring continuing relevance and influence in an ever changing environment through adaptation, innovation and openness and responsiveness to change.
What We Do
We raise funds, share knowledge and create opportunities for women working and studying in food, beverage and hospitality across British Columbia.
Fundraising and Philanthropy
Our events and fundraising activities support scholarships for women pursuing education and professional development in food, beverage and hospitality. With the help of donors, volunteers and supporters, we also contribute to community programs including Growing Chefs! and Chefs in the Classroom.
Education and Leadership
We offer learning and mentorship opportunities through Chapter events, member connections and community partnerships. We advocate for equitable workplaces and greater representation of women in leadership.
Support and Celebration
Our members share knowledge, make introductions and support one another’s businesses and careers. We celebrate their achievements and recognize their contributions to the industry and their communities.
Les Dames d’Escoffier International
Our Chapter is part of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), a network of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality. Chapters support their communities through philanthropy, education and mentorship.
The organization takes its name from French chef Auguste Escoffier (1846–1935), whose culinary work and philanthropy continue to inspire the profession.
Les Dames d’Escoffier was founded in 1976 by Carol Brock, a food editor at the New York Daily News, to advance the recognition and opportunities available to professional women in these fields.
Learn more about Les Dames d’Escoffier International and its programs.
Our Mentor
Since its incorporation 25 years ago, Les Dames d’Escoffier has followed its mission to elevate the profession through mentoring its members and helping worthy students succeed in their culinary careers. I am proud to be a member.
Julia Child 1912-2004
Our Board and Committee Chairs
Updated Leadership Listing Coming Soon
Our updated board and committee chair listing will be posted following our Annual General Meeting on November 16, 2026.
Our Supporters
Thank you to the businesses and organizations that have supported our Chapter’s scholarships, fundraising events and community work over the years.
OUR FOUNDING MEMBERS
The British Columbia chapter of Les Dames D’Escoffier International was formed in 1992. We honour and thank our founding members for their incredible vision and initiative, and their legacy of leading the way to inspire, advance and support the women of British Columbia’s hospitality, food and beverage industries.
- Karen Barnaby
- Diana Becker (Emerita)
- Cinnamon Combs
- Diane Clement (Emerita)
- Christine Coletta
- Eileen Dwillies (Emerita)
- Moira Fitzpatrick (Emerita)
- Janet McGuire
- Caren McSherry (Emerita)
- Cindy Opsal
- Barbara Watts (Emerita)
- Pam Williams (Current Member)

Since its incorporation 25 years ago, Les Dames d’Escoffier has followed its mission to elevate the profession through mentoring its members and helping worthy students succeed in their culinary careers. I am proud to be a member.











