EAST LANSING, Mich. — The Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center is hosting a screening of “A Fine Line” Monday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. in the center’s auditorium. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring film director Joanna James, local female chefs and other culinary executives.
This documentary features small-town chef Valerie James and her journey of developing a rewarding career by doing something she has always loved: cooking. Less than 7% of head chefs and restaurant owners in the restaurant industry identify as women. The documentary explores why this surprising statistic exists given that historical gender roles forced upon women revolved around completing household tasks such as cooking.
“It is important for women in the field to carve [no pun intended] out a space where they can connect and share their experiences and expertise,” notes Residential and Hospitality Services (RHS) Strategic Innovation Manager Kelly High McCord.
“A Fine Line” addresses societal issues, such as equal pay and workplace harassment, while showcasing a talented and diverse group of female chefs sharing similar ambitions to Valerie. The women featured in this documentary are award-winning chefs considered to be exemplars in multiple fields within the culinary service industry.
“We’re inviting students [to the screening], hoping to serve as role models to inspire girls and young women who are interested in a career in culinary and hospitality,” adds High McCord.
Panelists for this event include RHS Culinary Services Chefs Dien Ly, Kari Magee and Melissa Martinez. The panel will be moderated by MSU’s Executive Director of Culinary Services Rebecca Selesky and RHS Support Services Manager Lisa Farley.
Seating for this event is first come, first serve.
Joanna James (Director/Producer/Editor) – Joanna James is the founder and CEO of Zoel Productions, an independent film, television and multimedia production company out of New York. Based on Joanna’s experience making this film, she established the MAPP Impact Campaign to increase women in leadership. Prior to filmmaking, Joanna was awarded best environmental reporting by the New England Press Association for an investigative piece she wrote. For more information, visit afinelinemovie.com.
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