Opening Celebration Held for 3201 Cuthbert Street, Philadelphia’s Newest Life Sciences Landmark
John Gattuso, CEO Gattuso Development Partners cuts the ribbon. Definitely the first time I saw such a cool production, as these artists rappelled down the side of the building with the ribbon, brought the pieces together for John to snip it. (Great idea Cashman & Assoc.)
Philadelphia’s innovation corridor welcomed a major new addition on May 19 as developer John Gattuso and Gattuso Development Partners hosted an opening celebration for the highly anticipated 3201 Cuthbert Street in University City.
Antonio Merlo, PhD, is the 16th and current president of Drexel University.
The evening brought together an impressive mix of development partners, business leaders, elected officials, members of Philadelphia’s growing life sciences community, and longtime friends of the project for an exclusive first look inside the state of the art building.
Anthony Bracali and Rebecca Lacher
Alan Greenberger, FAIA is a nationally recognized architect, educator, and civic leader, Greta Greenberger, City Hall Tour Office and Meghan McDermott is from RAMSA (formerly Robert A.M. Stern Architects)
Guests gathered throughout the striking new space, experiencing the final reveal of what is already being called one of the most advanced life sciences developments in Philadelphia.
Brian Keech, VP-government & community relations Temple U and Erik Williams, Saul Ewing LLP
Located in the heart of University City near Drexel University and 30th Street Station, 3201 Cuthbert Street has quickly become a symbol of Philadelphia’s continued rise as a national hub for medicine, biotechnology, research, and innovation. The nearly 520,000 square foot development was designed by the renowned architectural firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects, specifically to support world class laboratory and research operations while also creating a modern collaborative environment for the next generation
Antonio Merlo, PhD, is the 16th and current president of Drexel University.
The project has already attracted major attention in the academic and research world, including Drexel University’s plans to house significant College of Medicine research operations within the building.
Throughout the celebration, guests mingled over cocktails while taking in panoramic views, modern interiors, and the ambitious vision behind the project. (see the artist dancing in the air to the left. So fun)
The event carried the energy of both a celebration and a statement about Philadelphia’s future. Conversations centered around economic growth, innovation, higher education partnerships, and the city’s expanding role in biotechnology and medical research.
3201 Cuthbert Street stands as another major investment in Philadelphia’s future, blending architecture, science, education, and economic development into one transformative project that is expected to influence the city’s innovation ecosystem for years to come.
Oliver St. Clair Franklin, executive produced the PBS documentary Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story and Bill Marrazzo is President and Chief Executive Officer of WHYY, Inc
Philadelphia has always been more than the backdrop of American history. It’s the city where the story of America continues to evolve toward a more perfect union. A powerful new documentary, Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, is about to debut on WHYY, a film that deeply resonates as Philadelphia prepares for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Oliver St. Clair Franklin, executive produced the PBS documentary Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story and Annie Connolly executive producer and company director.of Ber House Media
Patrick Oates,Leroy Nunery, Harold Epps, and Jay Cliffor
Before the screening, guests, supporters, and people connected with the film, including the UK television production company Bear House Media, gathered for a VIP cocktail reception inside the Philadelphia Film Society, creating an intimate atmosphere ahead of the premiere.
Linda Hennessy and Olivia Prendergast
“Within the backdrop of our nation’s Semiquincentennial, this documentary explores the themes and stories that continue to define who we are today, while underscoring the central role Philadelphia played in that history,” said Executive Producer Oliver St. Clair Franklin. “At its core, this film is about people, those whose stories have too often gone untold and the city that brought them together.”
Jackie and Earl Wolf
The film weaves together the stories of Indigenous people, enslaved Africans, immigrants, lawmakers, artists, and everyday Philadelphians who helped shape the country from the very beginning. What makes the documentary especially compelling is how deeply it connects the past to the Philadelphia we know today.
Dawn Frisby Byers, senior director of content and engagement at PA Humanities and Laurie Ziere, Executive Director PA Humanities · Experience: PA Humanities
Cherri Gregg, WHYY reporter greets Annie Connolly executive producer and company director.of Ber House Media as Betsy B Director of Programming & Engagement at WHYY Philadelphia looks on.
Following the screening, guests stayed for a thoughtful discussion with the filmmakers and WHYY’s Cherri Gregg.
Ronald Angelo Johnson, Ralph and Bessie Mae Lynn Chair of History at Baylor University. He is the author of Diplomacy in Black and White: John Adams, Toussaint Louverture, and Their Atlantic World Alliance. and Michael E. Tang, Director of PBS Plus (Public Broadcasting Service) leading television programming and strategy
Showtime for the preview, but you can catch
‘Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story,’ premiering May 28 on WHYY-12 before airing nationwide on PBS stations June 15, explores the city’s diverse communities, global influences and untold stories that helped shape the United States.
The annual BLOCS Gala brought together Philadelphia’s business, education, and civic leaders at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown on May 7, to celebrate the power of scholarship opportunities and the 25th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
The evening highlighted BLOCS’ mission of expanding access to education for thousands of students across the region.
Guests enjoyed student showcases and live demonstrations from participating schools, including robotics presentations, welding projects, fashion displays, and fine arts exhibits. Archbishop Nelson Pérez opened the evening with an invocation, while BLOCS leadership recognized donors, educators, elected officials, and longtime supporters who have helped grow the organization’s impact throughout Pennsylvania.
Frank Gumlenning and Kristie Dugan of Little Flower
The gala also reflected on how the EITC program has transformed educational access over the past 25 years, with video tributes from civic and political leaders who supported the initiative.
Rob Delany, CEO Blocs with his Pitt Team
Flannery O’connor, Bill Matthews, Anelena and Dan Astanca
BLOCS now partners with more than 500 schools and provides over 33,000 need based scholarships annually.
John De Grosa Smith and Hayatii Ahmado
Save the Date: Monday July 6th at The Shore Club
The BLOCS Golf Outing brings supporters, partners, and friends together on the course to raise funds for scholarships and education. It combines camaraderie, philanthropy, and a shared commitment to empowering students across the region.
Philadelphia will host the FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park for 39 days starting June 11.
Some of the following details were shared during recent neighborhood meetings, a presentation by the Lemon Hill Neighborhood Association, and recent press conferences. Since planning is ongoing, certain details could still change.
The event is free, features live soccer, music, and food from 75 local food trucks, and expects up to 15,000 fans daily. Officials urge fans to use public transportation due to limited parking, and neighborhood parking will be restricted to residents. 🚗🚙
Residential Permit Zone: From Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19, 2026, temporary residential parking permits will be required in neighborhoods surrounding the FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill. Residents will be able to register legally insured vehicles tied to their home address and will also receive two guest parking passes valid for the duration of the event period. INFO HERE
Here’s what visitors need to know before heading to Fairmount Park: (Subject to Change)
ENTRANCE INFO • South Entrance: Sedgley Drive & Poplar Drive • North Entrance: Girard Avenue & Poplar Drive
The park area near the Lincoln Statue will serve as the
Welcome Center and Indigo Bike Parking Station. Kelly Drive and Sedgley Ave intersection (across from Lloyd Hall at Boat House Row)
ROAD CLOSURES • Sedgley Drive and Poplar Drive south of Girard Avenue will be closed throughout construction which is ramping up now, event operations, and breakdown. There is no Lemon Hill Park access for recreation beginning May 18 through mid-August. • Poplar Street will close at 29th Street and 30th Street south of Girard. • Kelly Drive will remain open except for July 4 and the Schuylkill Navy Regattas in mid July.
BEST WAY TO GET THERE The FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill is about a 45 minute walk from City Hall, so organizers are strongly encouraging visitors to use public transportation, walk, or bike instead of driving. It’s actually a beautiful walk either up the Benjamin Franklin Parkway or through Fairmount along Fairmount Avenue, with plenty of restaurants, bars, cafés, and neighborhood shops along the way.
SEPTA will increase service on these bus routes: 7, 32, 38, 43, 48, 49, and G, with buses arriving roughly every 10 minutes.
The Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop will also add a dedicated stop at Pennsylvania & Fairmount Avenues for direct access to Lemon Hill, which is about a half a mile.
Find official information
2026 Access Philly app. See what’s happening across the city. Available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Philadelphia gave summer a full-on pep rally Tuesday night at the 3rd Annual Philly Opener presented by Highmark at the Independence Visitor Center Tuesday evening, May 5.
Sheila Hess, lead Phambassador with Jacquie Lewis definitely runner up as Philly’s biggest Phan
Guests were greeted by the always energetic Phambassadors, who cheered arrivals into the event, instantly setting the tone for a night filled with Philly pride, music, food, and excitement for the huge year ahead.
Mark Segal, Kathryn Ott Lovell is President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and Anne Ryan – Deputy Secretary Office of Tourism
The energy inside felt less like a networking event and more like a hometown rally for Philly pride, with DJ Hollywood keeping the party moving while tourism leaders, hospitality insiders, and local cheerleaders celebrated what’s ahead for the city.
The annual event officially kicks off the region’s tourism season and brings together many of the city’s hospitality leaders, tourism insiders, restaurant owners, and cultural organizations, while also welcoming plenty of enthusiastic Philly fans looking to celebrate the start of summer.
Heather Major and Kernika Gupta of Independence Blue Cross
Inside, the event blended food tastings, cocktails, entertainment, and tourism enthusiasm as hospitality leaders, local businesses, tourism officials, and city supporters gathered to celebrate the start of Philadelphia’s busy visitor season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
David Lebowitz, Pete Powell and Bill Laws
Jeff Serra and Councilperson Rue Landau
DJ Hollywood kept the energy high throughout the evening as guests sampled offerings from local restaurants and vendors while looking ahead to what many are calling one of the biggest years in Philadelphia history. With FIFA World Cup matches, MLB All-Star festivities, and America’s 250th birthday celebrations all on the horizon, the city is preparing for an international spotlight in 2026.
Liz Reed and Marla Axelrod
Calog, Tomomi and Daico
Guests also got a taste of Philly with an international twist as Tokyo-based restaurant Nihonbashi Philly wowed the crowd with a live cooking demonstration of their signature cheesesteak.
Sarah Murph, Sudha Suryadevara and Andrew Hart
The celebration also featured playful signature cocktails themed around Pennsylvania and Philly pride, including the “Keystone Lemonade,” “MVP Margarita,” and the crowd-pleasing “Espress-Opener Martini,” helping keep the atmosphere festive throughout the evening.
Michael Harris, Phillies, John Colabelli, Philadelphia Syle Magazine and Joy Harris, Joy Harris is the Philadelphia Eagles’ sign language interpreter, known for her work interpreting the National Anthem at home games to create a more inclusive gameday experience. As a prominent interpreter in Philadelphia, she aims to promote Deaf awareness, highlighting the rich culture of the Deaf community
Gritty enjoyed the Philadelphia Freedom Band and Color Guard performance during the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.
While Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was expected to attend to receive the event’s “Most Valuable Philadelphian” honor, he was unable to make it, with Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis stepping in on his behalf.
“This year, the work carries even greater meaning,” Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “As we mark the semiquincentennial, our city is welcoming the nation and the world for a once-in-a-generation year of history, culture, sports, tourism, hospitality and civic pride.”
Very cool “award” created specially for Governor Shapiro by artist/jeweler John Wind!!
Artist/Jeweler John Wind, his husband Bill Osman and friend Laura Burkhardt at their booth set up at the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.
A message from John Wind: Big thanks to @phlvisitorcenter and @kottlovell for the unique opportunity to create this year’s MVP (Most Valuable Philadelphian) Award for Governor Josh Shapiro! It was presented last night at their buzzy, Phantastic Philly Opener. Centered around a vintage Pennsylvania Jim Beam whiskey decanter, it’s embellished with symbols of @governorshapiro both professional and personal, as well as landmarks of our state. We kicked off our Philly250 jewelry collab last night as well, and I got to meet Miss Philadelphia, Swoop, and a few hundred passionate @phl.phambassadors ⭐️🇺🇸❤️
Today is busy. I have three events. Follow along on my Instagram
I saw the Devil Wear’s Prada last night. I liked it. It reminds me of my Manhattan days & nights. In fact on today’s Instagram I am posting about a time, shortly after the last movie, where I photographed Meryl Streep being honored by the Film Society of Lincoln Center in 2008. I sure do miss my red carpet celebrity shooting days. Today it’s too chaotic for me to venture back into it in Manhattan. Social Media killed it. It’s so crowded on the sidewalks now.
Life Science Cares Philadelphia Packs the The College of Physicians of Philadelphia for a Night of Impact
On April 22, over 300 people from Philadelphia’s life sciences community gathered at The College of Physicians for an evening defined by connection, generosity, and a shared mission to disrupt poverty across the region.
The energy in the room reflected what’s possible when an industry invests directly in the people shaping Philadelphia’s future.
Bob Rovinsky, Anna Majowicz, Benjamin Kator, and Sean Smith
Jennifer Parrado, Kevin Davis, Alyssa Pugh
The evening spotlighted the organization’s mission to fight poverty across the region, with powerful reminders that behind every innovation in science is an opportunity to improve lives right here at home.
Hannah Hudoka,and Josh Propper
By night’s end, the event raised roughly $75,000 to support local nonprofits focused on basic needs, education, and workforce pathways.
Nyree Oliver, Jason Henry, Ashley Rivera, and Dan Rhoton
It was one of those Philadelphia nights where purpose meets influence, and where a room full of changemakers proves this city isn’t just leading in science, it’s leading with heart.
Sarah St Clair takes part in the live auction which helped raise $75,000 towards the mission
Jennifer Parrado, a seasoned nonprofit leader, has served as the Life Science Cares Philadelphia Executive Director for the past year
Throughout the evening, guests heard directly from the individuals and partners behind Life Science Cares and its work across three key pillars: Basic Needs, Education, and Opportunity. Nowhere was that impact more tangible than in its partnership with Hopeworks Camden, a powerful example of how investment, mentorship, and opportunity can change the trajectory of lives.
Nyree Oliver, Hopeworks Alumna
Nyree Oliver’s story brought that impact to life. As a Hopeworks alumna, she represents the kind of transformation these partnerships make possible, moving from instability to opportunity through access to training, support, and meaningful employment. Her remarks grounded the evening in purpose and possibility, reminding everyone in the room what their investment truly supports.
“If you take anything away from tonight, let it be this: when you invest in people like me, you’re not just changing one life, you’re changing generations.” — Nyree Oliver, Hopeworks Alumna
Bryan Kennedy, Hannah Cihlar, Chris Roop, Joy Right, and Parker Jensen
Tracey Keele, Gretchen Pinto, Jen Strong,and Steve Simpson
To learn more about Life Science Cares and how the life sciences community is driving impact across Philadelphia, visit their website and explore ways to get involved.
Thanks Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for ChitChat. Look for additional photos in PhillyStyle Mag
Thanks for stopping by. Socially yours, xoxo HughE
Kristen Shepherd is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and Donald R. Caldwell, Chair of PAFA Board, help cut the ribbon to the newly renovated PAFA Museum
Founded on December 26, 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is the oldest art museum and school in the United States. As of 2026, PAFA is 220 years old and is celebrating its 220th anniversary this year, as the country celebrates it’s 250th anniversary. It was established in Philadelphia by painter and scientist Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush.
Sarah and Brad Marshall
It was one of those rare Philadelphia evenings where the city truly dressed the part. Long gowns swept the floors, tuxedos filled the rooms, and for a few hours, PAFA transported us back in time.
John and Leigh Middleton
Philadelphia’s art world had every reason to celebrate this season, as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts marked its 220th anniversary alongside the debut ofA Nation of Artists, a landmark exhibition presented in partnership with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Middleton Family Collection.
The night began in the Hamilton Building with registration and a cocktail hour that buzzed with anticipation. But the true highlight came shortly after, when guests made their way next door for the ribbon cutting and rededication of the Historic Landmark Building. Now fully restored and serving as a central home for A Nation of Artists, the space felt both historic and newly alive, linking PAFA’s storied past with its present moment.
Ron and Ellen Caplan, Board Chair of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA), Melissa Leonard and Tac Justi, Board member of PMA
Marsden Hartley (modernist, Southwest influence) and one of Mrs Middleton’s favorite pieces she mentioned to me, Georgia O’Keefe and Walter Ufer (Taos, true Southwest painter)
A Nation of Artists brings together an extraordinary range of American works, creating a sweeping visual narrative that spans centuries. Highlights include iconic portraiture such as Charles Willson Peale’s self-portrait and his portrait of George Washington, alongside Thomas Eakins’s powerful The Gross Clinic. Visitors move through lush landscapes by Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Edwin Church, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as deeply meaningful works from the Civil War era, including a monumental inscribed vessel by the enslaved potter David Drake.
Kyle Simpson and Michelle Azzarello
Kunal Kolia and Hilary Cianciole
Exquisite decor during the reception
Stephanie Stahl and John Trichon
Veronica McKee and Jonathan Hochman
I’m always excited when I spot a Calder in an exhibition
Steve Williamson and Kevin Hackenberg|
John S. Middleton noted, the exhibition is designed to be accessible to all, inviting visitors to discover something new with every visit, while PAFA President and CEO Kristen Shepherd described the moment as transformative for both the institution and the city, bridging its historic legacy with a forward-looking exploration of American art.
The exhibit at PAFA is incredible, truly one of the most exciting shows I’ve seen in a long time. I was especially grateful to thank the Middletons for sharing their collection with Philadelphia during such a meaningful moment in the city’s history. The renovations are stunning, the building feels bright, fresh, and full of energy. This is not a one-and-done visit, it’s the kind of exhibit you come back to again and again, and I already can’t wait to return and spend more time with it.
Have a great weekend. In the meantime, catch me on Instagram for daily updates on what’s happening around Philadelphia.
I’ve also launched a new account focused on upcoming events. I’m often told, “I wish I knew about that,” so this will be a place to find what’s coming up before it happens, things worth checking out across the city.
fred and teresa dibona, Christine DiBona Lobley and Brian Lobley
Held at Urban Outfitters, Inc. headquarters in the Navy Yard, Fred’s Footsteps hosted its annual Party in the Yard fundraiser on March 7, 2026, delivering a night filled with Philadelphia pride, community spirit, and impactful giving raising $348,000 for Local Families.
Lou and Lisa Oswald, Michelle and Rob Perlish
From the moment guests arrived, the energy was unmistakably Philly. The evening’s theme celebrated the city in full force, from locally inspired appetizers and décor to eye-catching, real-life “golden” statues of Rocky Balboa and Benjamin Franklin welcoming attendees.
Adding to the excitement, Swoop made a spirited appearance, while a green screen photo booth transported guests to iconic scenes along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Joe and Yvonne Kolok
One of the most talked-about features of the night was the glowing balloon-and-letter marquee display by Charming Garlands, which quickly became a must-stop photo moment. Meanwhile, 13th Street Cocktail Catering elevated the experience with a custom Philly-themed bar, complete with a steaming manhole cover branded with the Fred’s Footsteps logo—a clever nod to the city’s streetscape.
Jeff DuBose and Joanne Dixon
Meg Kane and Keith Audit
Olivia and Christian Hoban
Since its founding in 2005, Fred’s Footsteps has been dedicated to ensuring that a child’s health is a parent’s only worry. The organization provides critical financial relief to working families caring for medically complex children, serving Philadelphia and 18 surrounding counties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Angelo Christopher, Kristin Jones and Mea Coffin
The program featured a high-energy live auction led by Jeff Hammond, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a private chef’s table at Osteria, a VIP Philadelphia Eagles training camp experience, and a luxury Philadelphia Phillies suite outing.
Jaron and Tara Parr, Rebecca and Jon Stump
Guests also showed overwhelming generosity during the paddle raise, funding essential needs such as wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and basic household expenses for families facing medical hardship.
Pat and Jen Haddon
From silent auction bids and raffle ticket purchases to enthusiastic paddle raises, every moment of participation contributed to a powerful outcome. By the end of the evening, Fred’s Footsteps raised an impressive $348,000, directly supporting families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.
Brett Mansfield, Jackie Bradley, Becky and Tom Quirk
Fred’s loves Phillyand once again, Philadelphia showed up.
Thanks for stopping by!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE
Philadelphia is rolling out a new initiative to energize neighborhood business corridors as the nation’s 250th anniversary approaches. The focus is on activating these areas through events, beautification efforts, and community programming.
The campaign,Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration, will spotlight 20 corridors across the city, with the goal of attracting more visitors, supporting small businesses, and creating more vibrant, welcoming commercial districts. “Ring It On! celebrates and uplifts the neighborhoods that define Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “Our neighborhoods are the heart of this city.”
The effort, first announced in September, when they first taught us about the City’s ABC’s – activations, beatifications, and celebrations. The plan includes expanding neighborhood festivals, introducing new programming, and enhancing corridors with improvements like tree plantings, upgraded lighting, benches, banners, and bike racks.
Plans are in place, and the City is ready to officially kicked off the Philly 2026 initiatives.
Earlier this month in Point Breeze they held a press conference which coincided with the Point Breeze Market Festival, which brought the corridor to life with live entertainment, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities.
City officials say the program will extend to two corridors in each of Philadelphia’s 10 City Council districts, reaching neighborhoods from Chinatown and South 9th Street to Germantown, Kensington, and Northeast Philadelphia to celebrate America’s 250th .
According to City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, launching the initiative in Point Breeze underscores the importance of investing in neighborhood commercial districts.
“Investing in our commercial corridors and public spaces is critical to strengthening neighborhoods across Philadelphia,” Johnson said. “I’m energized to see how this effort will have a lasting impact well beyond 2026.”
Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and president and CEO of Philadelphia250,
We are going to make sure that this celebration pours out into the neighborhoods. All of the neighborhoods. We are going to make sure to involve and engage all of these communities
Aramark’s Building Community helped clean up the Point Breeze park finishing off with this cool mural for Philly’s 250th and beyond.
The initiative also includes a yearlong calendar of events ranging from food truck festivals and cultural celebrations to music events, neighborhood fairs and block parties.
Philadelphia’s Block Party Bonanza is open to any block that secures a city block party permit. Once approved, organizers receive a link to apply through Philadelphia250. Selected blocks will be chosen to ensure representation across all 10 City Council districts, with participation determined on a first-come, first-served basis for events held between May 23 and October 3, 2026.
For all the information you need to enjoy the 250 celebrations head HERE
So many great initiatives and celebrations bringing people together, building pride, and showcasing the very best of our City. Stay tuned here, on IG’s PhillyChitChat and especially the City’s IG account.
Women Leading the Way: Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia Celebrates Industry Trailblazers
Philadelphia’s culinary scene came out to support the annual Women in Food Reception hosted by Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia at Chatayee Thai at 1227 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 earlier this month. A night dedicated to the women shaping what, and how, we eat in this city.
Natanya DiBona, Kate Carr, Vicki Pohl and Jennifer Dolan
The room was filled with an impressive cross-section of chefs, restaurateurs, writers, beverage experts, and hospitality leaders , all connected by one thing: impact. This wasn’t just a networking event, it was a celebration of influence, mentorship, and the future of the industry.
Barbara Jo-Saler, and Fran Costigan
Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.
Natalie, Catie, honorees Christopher Hirsheimer and Melissa Hamilton of @canalhouse, Lynn and Giovanna Chiu
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of this year’s Heritage Dinner “Outstanding in Her Field” honorees, a recognition that shines a spotlight on women who have made significant contributions to the culinary and hospitality world.
Each year, the Heritage Dinner serves as one of the organization’s signature events — honoring excellence while supporting the next generation through scholarships and mentorship initiatives. It’s where legacy meets opportunity.
Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality — and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.
Joy Stocke, Jeannie Houchins and Lani Robling
Membership in Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is as curated as the talent it represents. This is not a sign-up-and-show-up kind of organization. Women who apply are established professionals in the food, beverage, and hospitality world, typically with years of experience and a strong record of leadership.
The process requires sponsorship from current members and a formal review, ensuring that each Dame brings both credibility and a commitment to giving back. It is a working network built on mentorship, philanthropy, and advancing women in the industry, which is exactly why being part of it carries real weight in Philadelphia’s culinary community.
Alyssa Termini, Program Director for C-CAP Philly & Board President for Volunteering Untapped PHL and Kerrri Sitrin, food publicist
I always enjoy being around these women who show up for one another in an industry that hasn’t always made space for them. What stands out most is their commitment to collaboration over competition, lifting each other while moving the entire field forward. Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is more than a network, it’s a force for growth, mentorship, and real opportunity. If you’re a woman working in the food space, this is an organization that can expand your thinking, strengthen your business, and connect you to a community that truly invests in your success.
ENTRANCE INFO
Kelly Drive and Sedgley Ave intersection (across from Lloyd Hall at Boat House Row)
ROAD CLOSURES
BEST WAY TO GET THERE
