Board welcomes seasoned nonprofit and hospitality leader to guide the Foundation’s next chapter of growth

Schaumburg, IL — 6/18/2026 — The Escoffier Scholarship Foundation has announced the appointment of Chandy Rice as its new Executive Director, marking an important step forward as the Foundation continues to expand its role in cultivating the next generation of culinary and hospitality leaders.

Chandy, a resident of Mustang, OK, has a background that spans major fundraising initiatives, board and stakeholder relations, program development, strategic planning, and large-scale community partnerships — experience that aligns directly with the Foundation’s mission.

“Chandy brings the rare combination of strategic discipline, hospitality experience, and nonprofit leadership that will fill this seat well,” said Chef Thomas Vacarro, Chairman of the Board for the Escoffier Scholarship Foundation. “The Board is delighted to welcome her as Executive Director. Her track record of building partnerships, strengthening organizations, and advancing mission-driven growth will be invaluable as we continue expanding the Foundation’s reach and impact.”

Throughout her career, Rice has led high-performing development and advancement efforts across respected nonprofit and hospitality organizations. Most recently, she served as Director of Strategic Advancement at Hunger Free Oklahoma, an organization devoted to ending hunger in Oklahoma. Her previous leadership roles include Pivot, A Turning Point for Youth, and more than a decade with the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. Her professional credentials include the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation and the Institute for Organization Management (IOM) designation.

“I am honored to join the Escoffier Scholarship Foundation at such a meaningful stage in its growth,” said Rice. “I’ve always had a heart for work that creates opportunity for all! The hospitality industry is the definition of opportunity and I’m excited to carry on the good work.”

The appointment comes as the Escoffier Scholarship Foundation continues to build momentum around its mission of investing in the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals. The Foundation supports students at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, which currently includes campuses in Austin, Texas, and Boulder, Colorado.

Interested in partnering with the Escoffier Scholarship Foundation? Reach out to Chandy at crice@escoffierscholarship.org, and she would be happy to talk to you about how you want to be involved. 

About the Escoffier Scholarship Foundation

The Escoffier Scholarship Foundation strategically invests in high-potential culinary and hospitality talent, cultivating leaders who elevate standards, strengthen institutions, and advance the global food ecosystem. Through scholarship support, industry partnerships, and long-term stewardship, the Foundation helps expand access to education and opportunity for the next generation of culinary and hospitality leaders.

Media Contact:
Jackie Atalla, Treasurer
Escoffier Scholarship Foundation
Scholarship@escoffier.edu
https://escoffierscholarship.org