Leslie Lawrence serves as the Culinary Director for Culinary Connections at Easterseals PORT Health, an innovative program designed to make culinary arts more accessible to ALL. With more than 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry—including catering, food service, and event management—Leslie brings a deep well of lived experience that informs every aspect of the program’s design and delivery.
Her passion for food and people shines through in her work, blending warmth, creativity, and structure to create inclusive culinary experiences. Prior to Culinary Connections, Leslie helped lead and design the SensABLE Snacks Food Trucks in North Carolina, a forward-thinking model that employed individuals with disabilities and provided hands-on food service training. The lessons learned from that program laid the groundwork for Culinary Connections, shaping its mission and approach.
Leslie’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment is the perfect recipe—combining heart, skill, and vision to serve up the transformative power of cooking for everyone, regardless of ability.