Celebrating 30 years of empowering women in the culinary, beverage, and hospitality industries, the San Antonio chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEISA) has awarded nearly $500,000 in scholarships and grants, supported countless community initiatives, and helped shape the city’s food scene. This September, LDEISA invites the public to its 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Dinner at the historic Red Berry Estate for an evening of food, storytelling, and celebration to support the next generation of women leaders.
Thirty years ago, a group of visionary women gathered around a table with a simple but powerful idea: To become part of a global network of women leaders in food, beverage, and hospitality dedicated to advancing other women in these fields as well as serving their local community. What began as a small, passionate network has blossomed into the thriving organization known today as Les Dames d'Escoffier San Antonio (LDEISA), which marked its 30th anniversary this year.
With faded photographs capturing their first meetings and handwritten notes outlining their mission, these founding members - Lenny Angel, Barbara Bechtold, Cynthia Guido, Karen Haram, Nancy Lazara, Prissy Kent, Rosemary Kowalski, Pat Mozersky, Cynthia Pedregon, and Patsy Swendson - planted the seeds for what has become a powerful force for mentorship, education, and community service throughout the San Antonio area.
Hairstyles and fashion may have changed over the years, but not these women's dedication to serving their community and sharing their knowledge. Since its founding in 1995, LDEISA has awarded over 87 scholarships totaling more than $294,000, opening doors for women pursuing culinary and hospitality careers. The impact extends beyond education. Through the Aspirations Grant program, the chapter has distributed 30 grants totaling nearly $200,000, funding women-led businesses and projects that enrich the local food, beverage, and hospitality landscape.
But LDEISA’s contributions go beyond financial support. Programs like Green Tables educate local communities about sustainable food systems and nutrition as well as support community garden initiatives throughout the Alamo City. Annual outreach efforts such as the Roy Maas Youth Alternatives Holiday Dinner bring comfort, Christmas spirit, and nourishment to youth in need. From hosting educational panels for culinary education to partnering with local schools and nonprofits, LDEISA’s presence is felt across San Antonio on a daily basis.
Today, the organization’s membership has grown to include more than 100 professional women representing some of the most prestigious restaurants, culinary businesses, and hospitality groups in the city. Current members include chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, food writers, educators, and hospitality executives, many of whom continue to break barriers and set industry standards.
And you can be sure these ladies know how to throw a great party! To celebrate this 30-year journey of friendship and community service, LDEISA invites the public to attend its 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Dinner on Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 6pm to 11pm, at the historic Red Berry Estate, home of the RK Group founded by beloved Dame and local culinary legend, the late Rosemary Kowalski, who was able to celebrate her 100th birthday among the group at last year's event before her passing.
Presented by H-E-B, the evening will feature a Dame-inspired menu, with each dish celebrating contributions by a member. Guests will enjoy a live auction, an alcohol pull, and an evening of dancing under the stars, all in support of LDEISA’s scholarship and grant programs.
"We are thrilled to mark this milestone with an unforgettable evening that reflects the passion and purpose of our organization,” says Elise Russ, event chair and owner of Clementine. “Every ticket purchased helps propel the next generation of women in our industry."
Elise Russ, event chair and owner of Clementine
Tickets are on sale now with General Admission priced at $175, VIP Admission at $225, and table packages available for groups. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and include premium visibility and branding benefits. Tickets for the evening can be found on Give Butter. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact the LDEISA team or click here to see sponsorship information, or for more information about LDEISA’s ongoing programs and impact, please visit www.ldeisanantonio.org.
