LEE Initiative's Culinary Education Program

A program that addresses gaps in job training and preparedness for high school students and young people in the Louisville, Kentucky community.

Background: Launched in summer 2022 in partnership with McAtee Community Training Kitchen and culinary arts programs at Louisville-area high schools. The LEE Initiative identified a need for increased, in-depth culinary education and training in Louisville.

Geographic Scope: Louisville, Kentucky and surrounding area

Focus Areas:

• Culinary arts education
• Job training and preparedness
• Employment opportunities in food, beverage, and hospitality industry

What They Fund:

• Full scholarships (tuition, enrollment fees, book stipend) for students enrolling in Culinary Arts Associate's degree programs at Sullivan University in Louisville
• $5,000 credits for culinary arts programs at participating high schools (Iroquois, Moore, and Western High Schools) to purchase ingredients and supplies
• Support for hands-on training and curriculum development

Eligibility:

• High school students
• Young people in the community
• Students enrolling in Culinary Arts Associate's degree program at Sullivan University
• Students in participating high school culinary arts programs

Target Population: Those committed to a career in the culinary arts, particularly those for whom a culinary education opportunity is out of reach

Notable Detail: 2022 scholarship awarded in the name of Chef David McAtee, a beloved chef and community member killed by the National Guard in 2020

Mission Statement: "A valuable culinary education is the foundation for a productive career in the restaurant industry.

Application Process

• Apply Here: Link provided on program page (leeinitiative.org/the-lee-initiatives-culinary-education-program)
• Specific application requirements and materials not detailed on provided website content