About Us

The Culinary Endowment & Scholarship is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization, operating in Houston, Texas since 2001 to provide tuition scholarships to students pursuing hands-on training in the culinary arts. Scholarships are awarded to students based upon (1) financial need, and (2) academic and professional merit. Scholarship disbursements range from $500 to $2,000 and are awarded four times annually.

Our Mission

The Culinary Endowment and Scholarship’s mission is to grow an endowment and raise funds for scholarships, to make accessible quality, hands-on training and culinary expertise to underprivileged students aspiring to a rewarding career.

Our History

The Culinary Endowment and Scholarship was created in March 2001 by Marie LeNotre to support high quality education in the culinary arts. Many students applying for culinary school have a difficult time paying for their education. They apply for federal loans, borrow money from family and friends and apply for private loans, yet they are still unable to attain the necessary tuition to pursue their educational goals.

Marie LeNotre and Randy Fournier, President of the Houston Food and Beverage Managers Association, decided that these deserving students should be provided with the tools necessary to achieve their goals.

The primary source of scholarship funds is acquired through our annual fundraising gala, Champagne and Chocolat. This black-tie gourmet dinner gala has become a trademark event. It features a champagne reception, a raffle, a silent auction, sugar and chocolate demonstration, Can-Can dance performance and musical entertainment. The gala attracts many affluent individuals and successful businesses that have a vested interest in philanthropy, gourmet dining, and education.

In 2001, Marie LeNotre organized the first charity gala that raised $45,000. The 2006 gala raised more than $100,000. Because of the generosity and commitment of all of our donors, sponsors and friends, more than 120 tuition scholarships have been disbursed so far to worthy students in need of tuition funds.


Culinary Endowment and Scholarship, Inc
121 N. Post Oak Lane, #1705
Houston, TX 77024

Phone: 713.692.0077
Fax: 713.692.7399
culinaryendowment@yahoo.com