Delaware Restaurant Foundation event celebrates future hospitality leaders

The Delaware Restaurant Foundation recently hosted its annual Foundation Dinner at Riverfront Events in Wilmington. The event brought together hospitality leaders, educators and supporters to celebrate the next generation of culinary and restaurant professionals, while raising critical funds to support high school culinary and hospitality programs across the state. Scholarships provided by local and national industry partners were also awarded to exemplary students continuing their education at postsecondary institutions.

With more than 200 guests in attendance, the evening was both a celebration and a call to action, ultimately raising more than $150,000 to directly benefit hospitality students and educators through classroom equipment, field experiences, credentialing and professional development.

Students from 11 Delaware high schools played integral roles in the evening’s success, showcasing their skills and professionalism throughout the event. During the cocktail hour, students worked side by side with some of Delaware’s top chefs to prepare and serve a variety of creative hors d’oeuvres. Others supported event logistics, assisting with registration, welcoming guests and selling 50/50 raffle tickets, all with poise and enthusiasm.

“Watching these students in action – confident, capable, and working hand in hand with industry professionals – was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. They’re not just participating in an event; they’re stepping into their future,” said Meg Gardner, Delaware Restaurant Foundation vice president.

Caleb Marcus, a Cape Henlopen High School sophomore, said, “Working the cocktail hour at the DRF fundraising dinner was an incredible opportunity to connect with industry professionals and leaders in the business and hospitality world. It gave me valuable, real-world experience in public speaking, explaining the menu and serving food in a fast-paced environment.”

Following the reception, guests were treated to a beautifully executed, four-course dinner featuring the award-winning dishes from this year’s Delaware ProStart Invitational competition. The main dishes, Shrimp Mofongo and Moroccan Spiced Lamb Loin, were brought to life by student chefs, educators and industry mentors who collaborated in the kitchen with professionalism and pride.

Invited speakers and supporters included Bill Kohl, National Restaurant Association chair; Rich Schneider, National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation chair; Jonathan Wickert, Delaware Department of Education; and leaders of the Delaware Army National Guard.

As part of the evening’s program, the Delaware Restaurant Foundation recognized Culinary Instructor/Chef LaTisha Dismuke of Cape Henlopen High School as the 2025 Educator of Excellence, honoring her outstanding leadership, mentorship and commitment to student success.

The foundation also awarded over $13,000 in scholarships to exceptional ProStart students from across the state, each demonstrating passion, perseverance and potential in the culinary and hospitality fields.