WILMINGTON — The Delaware Restaurant Foundation (DRF) 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 & 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 over 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 an integral role 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,” Meg Gardner, vice president, Delaware Restaurant Foundation, 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,” Caleb Marcus, Sophomore, Cape Henlopen High School, said.
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 (1st Place – Team St. Georges and 2nd Place – Team Glasgow High School). 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.
The dinner would not have been possible without the generous support of Diamond State Meats, Congressional Seafood, and Seashore Fruit & Produce, who donated the highest quality ingredients. Wine pairings were generously provided by Jackson Family Wines, adding a refined touch to the experience. Invited speakers and supporters included Bill Kohl (Chair, National Restaurant Association), Rich Schneider (Chair, National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation), Jonathan Wickert (Delaware Department of Education) and leaders of the DE Army National Guard.
As part of the evening’s program, the Delaware Restaurant Foundation proudly recognized Culinary Instructor/Chef LaTisha Dismuke (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:
Harry’s Hospitality Group ProStart Education Scholarship
- Scott Cave (Hodgson Vo-Tech) – $1,200 in classroom support
- Andrew Feeley (Appoquinimink High School) – $1,200 in classroom support
- Christine Longo (Glasgow High School) – $1,200 in classroom support
Scott Kammerer ProStart Student Scholarship Award
- Miriam Kogut (Appoquinimink) – $2,000
- Layla Layton-Smith (Appoquinimink) – $2,000
Schneider-McAleer Scholarship
- Laiken McCabe (Hodgson Vo-Tech) – $1,000
High 5 Hospitality Group Scholarship
- Miriam Kogut (Appoquinimink) – $2,500
Buckley’s Culinary Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 each):
- Rylee McCall
- Sofia Clarke
- Aniya Samuels
- Teaira Gardner
- Gwendolyn Thomas
- Karron Tolber (all St. Georges Technical High School, 1st Place winners of the Delaware ProStart Student Invitational)
“It’s always been an amazing opportunity for students to be able to connect and network with restaurant owners as well as a great way to establish ourselves in the industry,“ Ruby Wall, Junior, Odessa High School, said.
“This dinner is more than a celebration—it’s a reflection of the incredible potential within our students and the power of the community to support their success. Every dollar raised tonight helps us create real pathways to opportunity through training, mentorship, and hands-on experiences in the hospitality industry,” Gardner said.
