Scholarships

The hospitality industry has diversity at its core. We serve people from every background, culture, and community, and we thrive by creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. Our companies are built on teamwork and collaboration, bringing together individuals with unique perspectives and experiences. This makes our industry stronger and ensures that people feel safe, seen, heard, and valued for both their contributions and who they are.

That is why the International Caterers Association is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion where respect and belonging are essential. A key expression of this commitment is our annual ICA Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship Program. Applications for 2026 are now closed.

Elligibilty

The ICA Diversity & Inclusion Scholarships are available to catering companies that have been ICA members for at least a year and have at least 50% of their upper management composed of individuals from underrepresented groups in the catering industry. 

These groups include, but are not limited to:

• African American
• Asian/Pacific Islander 
• American Indian
• Latin(o/a)/Latinx
• LGBTQIA+
• People with disabilities
• Veterans
• Woman-owned businesses

What's Included?

Each winning member company is awarded a complimentary pass to attend the Catersource + The Special Event conference for that calendar year, which is currently valued at up to $899. The company can then select the attendee from their organization.

Congratulations to Our 2025 Recipients!

• Ashley Royer, Sales Administrative Coordinator, The JDK Group
• Deborah Daoudi, Director of Sales, Dish Food & Events
• Dell Mercado, Director of People Operations, Noble Catering & Events
• Destiny Graham, Account Sales Manager, Blue Sage Cuisine
• Jose Suiney, Sous Chef, Thrive Catering
• John Serna, Chef, Blue Elephant Events and Catering
• Karen Osuji Carman, Warehouse Manager, Hamby Catering & Events
• Kristen Barraclough, Senior Sales Manager, Artisan by Santa Barbara Catering
• Liz Battad, Operations Manager, LUX Catering & Events
• McKenzie Spandet, Managing Chef, Dutzel's Catering & Events
• Melissa Stein, Catering Account Specialist, Marcia Selden Catering & Events
• Neely Slawson, Owner, NOM Catering Company
• Thor Schow, Operations Manager, Chef Nettie Catering