Dorothy Cann Hamilton, The FCI’s Founder and CEO, was named to the Board of Trustees of The James Beard Foundation last March. She is Chairman of the new Board, which also includes Master Sommelier Larry Stone and Merrill Lynch’s Jason Wright. The appointments—a first step in a major restructuring of the JBF—mark a significant milestone for both the Foundation and Hamilton personally.

“The James Beard Foundation has held a unique position in the professional food world for a number of years of helping and supporting young chefs,” said Hamilton. “I am excited to join the Board of Trustees at this juncture to help the Foundation move forward with its mission. I believe the next few years will be years of great growth and fulfillment.”

Hamilton will serve on a voluntary basis for a three-year term and, along with the other board members, will help recruit additional Trustees who are representative of the various constituencies with which the Foundation works. The Board will oversee the JBF's financial affairs and governance, House events, publications and outreach programs, determine policies and actively promote the JBF’s objectives in accordance with its mission.

This reorganization takes full advantage of Hamilton’s leadership strengths, and the announcement has been met with enthusiasm throughout the industry. “I see great things ahead for the James Beard Foundation,” said Chef Charlie Trotter, proprietor of the renowned restaurant that bears his name in Chicago. “These are indeed exciting times for America’s most important culinary arts organization.”

Hamilton’s appointment complements a distinguished career in vocational education and an outstanding reputation for innovative programs in food and wine. She has been named Chairman Emeritus of The American Institute of Wine and Food, has received the coveted Silver Spoon award from Food Arts magazine and been awarded the prestigious Ordre National du Merite from the French government. She is also on the boards of the U.S. Peace Corps Fund, Abraham House and The Calhoun School.

Based in New York City, The James Beard Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to furthering the practice and appreciation of the culinary arts in America. In addition to sponsoring The James Beard Foundation Awards, the Foundation administers scholarships annually, holds special events at the historic James Beard House in Greenwich Village and around the nation, and maintains an archival culinary library. For more information on the Foundation, please visit www.jamesbeard.org.