LDEI, with the support of the Julia Child Foundation, offers women unique opportunities to work alongside accomplished members of LDEI in their chosen culinary fields. These Legacy Award experiences immerse women who are eager to learn, grow, and give back to their communities and provide Dames important mentorship opportunities.

Legacy Award winners apply in January each year for experiences that take place between May and September. This year, five outstanding women from across the United States were chosen for the Legacy Awards because they exemplify excellence, innovation, and leadership in their respective areas of expertise. Their dedication to culinary arts, sustainable practices, community engagement, and education has left an indelible mark on the industry and inspired countless others.

Read more about this year’s winners.

In a grand celebration of leadership, education, and community impact, we are proud to announce Dame Hayley Matson-Mathes (Hawaii) as the recipient of its distinguished Woman of Purpose Award in partnership with YETI®. This honor recognizes exceptional Dames who are driving meaningful change in their communities through initiatives centered on global sustainability, food justice, education, and public health.

“Hayley embodies the very spirit of the Woman of Purpose award,” says Stephanie Jaeger, LDEI President. “Her commitment to culinary education, her ability to create opportunity where there was once limitation, and her tireless advocacy for students, teachers, and working professionals have left a lasting mark not just in Hawaii, but across the broader culinary landscape. We are thrilled to honor her contributions.”