Mountain Valley Spring Water Sponsors LEE Initiative and their Chef Mentorship Program

Let's Empower Employment (LEE) Initiative has partnered with Southern Foodways Alliance to bring us the 2018 Southern Foodways Alliance Summer Symposium in Lexington, KY on Thursday, June 21^st through Saturday, June 23^rd. During their inaugural year, the LEE Initiative is focused on a mission to bring more equality and diversity to the restaurant industry, particularly for female chefs seeking leadership roles.

"Mountain Valley is always excited to see passionate people thrive in their crafts," said Stephan Williams, Director of Marketing. He added, "When we got this opportunity to bring visibility to the careers of strong, talented women in the culinary industry, we felt it was a perfect pairing." In addition to the scholarship sponsorship, a Mountain Valley hydration station will be offering their natural Spring Water to guests.

After careful consideration put forth by a thoughtfully curated selection committee, the following five chefs from Kentucky have made it through the grant application process and earned the opportunity to spend a week working under notable female chefs around the country:

AuCo Lai of Corbin
Jen Rock of Louisville
Nikkia Rhodes of Louisville
Stephania Sharkey of Lexington
Stephanie Callihan of Lexington

For one of them, The Mountain Valley Spring Water Mentorship Scholarship will include:

• Event tickets, travel and lodging to the SFA Summer Symposium in Lexington, KY
• Event tickets, travel and lodging to the SFA Winter Symposium in Birmingham, AL
• Expenses for food, supplies and books
• Mentorship meetings and consultations with Chef Edward Lee

Here's a sneak peek at the list of confirmed mentor chefs and owners who will be opening their kitchens and serving up some wisdom for our grant recipients:

Anne Quatrano
Bacchanalia, Star Provisions
Atlanta, GA

Brooke Williamson
Playa Provisions, Hudson House
Playa del Rey, CA

Carrie Nahabedian
NAHA, Brindille
Chicago, IL

Jenn Louis
Ray Restaurant
Portland, OR

Katie Button
Curate, Nightbell
Asheville, NC

About The Mountain Valley Spring Water
The Mountain Valley Spring Water Co. is the authentic American natural spring water. Headquartered in Hot Springs, Ark., the iconic brand has been serving consumers since 1871. The brand's spring and sparkling waters are still bottled today from the abundant natural artesian spring source originating from deep within the valley's granite-based geologic formation, giving it its unique mineral content and taste profile. Twice named "Best-Tasting Water in the World," Mountain Valley Spring water is delivered to home and offices across the country. The brand can also be found in fine retailers, natural grocery and traditional supermarkets. Mountain Valley Spring is a Great Range Capital corporation.

SOURCE Mountain Valley Spring Water Company