EC Wisconsin News

Amanda Weber, Culinary Arts Program Coordinator and Instructor at Lakeshore College, has been named to the “Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch” list by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. The recognition highlights women making significant contributions across Wisconsin’s hospitality industry. Nominees were evaluated based on their ability to inspire others, leadership qualities, work ethic, character, and resilience.

Weber will be honored at the upcoming Women in Hospitality Conference scheduled for October 20 in Madison.

“Chef Amanda’s success is no surprise to us at Lakeshore College, where she leads our culinary program with passion, innovation, and dedication. We are proud to have her on board here inspiring students each day as she helps them pursue technical excellence and personal growth,” said Lakeshore President Dr. Paul Carlsen.

Weber’s work addresses challenges such as food insecurity, educational access, environmental impact, and mental health among students and within the broader hospitality sector. Her efforts include leading a food sustainability initiative that turns surplus culinary lab ingredients into free meals for those facing food insecurity. She has also developed dual-credit programs that allow high school students to gain college-level culinary experience and incorporated composting into the curriculum. Additionally, Weber serves as a mental health first aid instructor.

Lakeshore College serves over 9,000 students annually through its main campus in Cleveland and additional sites in Manitowoc and Sheboygan. The college offers programs aimed at developing career skills or preparing for further education. According to recent rankings from sources such as Washington Monthly and Forbes, Lakeshore is recognized nationally among two-year colleges.

The college reports that about 800 students graduate each year, with associate degree graduates earning a median salary of $61,355 within six months of graduation.