Reflections on LDEI'S Board Meeting in Asheville, N.C.

By Stephanie Jaeger (BC), LDEI President

While virtual meetings help keep us connected, nothing compares to the energy and connection that happens when we come together in person. The camaraderie, the spontaneous sidebars, and the relationships that deepen around the table all contribute to a stronger, more united Board. Smiles are shared more freely, intentions are clearer, and conversations take on new depth. With our current Board committed for 14 months, these face-to-face opportunities are not just valuable—they’re essential for building trust, alignment, and momentum.

We met in a “typical” hotel boardroom—one long table, standard artwork—but with an extraordinary view of the Appalachian Mountains. Asheville, the mountain town, offered us not just a setting but a sense of place that elevated our time together.

During our two days of meetings, the Board received a detailed update from the Conference Committee Chair regarding Las Vegas 2026, reviewed our financial position, and explored new revenue opportunities for LDEI. We brainstormed upcoming auction ideas and took a close look at the work and performance of our contractors, including recent PR results. We also made progress on next steps for the M.F.K. Fisher Symposium.

A highlight was our scheduled conversation with some of the members of the North Carolina Chapter, coordinated by Chapter President Tracy Stuckrath who gathered Dames from across the state. We discussed the challenges of distance, chapter connection on a smaller scale, and how LDEI might better support chapters following events like Hurricane Helene. We also reflected on the significance of the Escoffier name to our membership today. A discussion that resulted in this wonderful ‘(w)rap, written and performed by Susi Gott Séguret.

We concluded our time together with a warm and laughter-filled potluck dinner hosted by the N.C. Dames—an evening of exceptional food, heartfelt conversation, live music, and genuine connection. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it was a perfect close to an inspiring exchange.

One local shared that the winding mountain roads were shaped by those who instinctively sought higher ground—a fitting metaphor for our own journey. In Asheville, we too found elevation, clarity, and connection that will carry us forward.