Supporting cheese research and education.
Daphne Zepos Teaching Endowment
The Daphne Zepos Teaching Endowment exists to fund research in the cheese industry and to promote cheese education.
We were established as a memorial fund to celebrate the legacy of Daphne Zepos, an insightful and dynamic advocate for the cause of traditional cheese here in the U.S. and around the world.
Two annual scholarships are given to food industry professionals to travel and further their learning—and their ability to educate others—about cheese.
SHARING IS CARING
GIVE TO DZTE
DZTE supports cheese research and education through generous community donations. Learn about all the ways to support our vision and give to DZTE.
THE SCHOLARSHIPS
Application season for the Teaching Award opens in 2026.
PLEASE NOTE: As of April 1st, 2025, changes have been made to the DZTA application.
DZRA Applications will open in 2026
DZTA Application will open in 2026
BITV application will open in 2027
Interested in applying for a DZTE scholarship?
Connect with the Advisory Committee to learn more!
Many of us underestimate the role salt plays in cheese. From adding flavor, acting as a defense against pathogens, and being a component in brine. Brine is a common part of many affinage operations foreign and domestic, but how many of us are really aware of what it does and how it impacts the cheese we produce and consume. Lilith hopes to pierce through the mystery of this component and present the findings in an accessible manner.
COME TOGETHER OVER CHEESE
UPCOMING EVENTS
From cheese sales to gear and parties, our events contribute to the DZTE capital endowment. Check out events happening in your area.
2025 RECIPIENTS
Teaching Award Recipient: Lilith Spencer
Many of us underestimate the role salt plays in cheese. From adding flavor, acting as a defense against pathogens, and being a component in brine. Brine is a common part of many affinage operations foreign and domestic, but how many of us are really aware of what it does and how it impacts the cheese we produce and consume. Lilith hopes to pierce through the mystery of this component and present the findings in an accessible manner.
Research Award Recipient: Olivia Haver
Olivia will dig into the ingenuity of American artisan cheese caves to research, document, and share her findings in an invaluable resource for anyone looking to build or refine their aging space. Olivia’s history as an affineur at some of the best cheese companies in the US makes her the perfect person to take on this project.
"While I don't deal with the cheesemaking part, I am the one that sort of broadens the horizons, does taste education, history of cheese...these are the institutions that will come in here and protect the cheesemaker."
— Daphne Zepos, Founder
ALL RECIPIENTS & VISIONS
While we are proud to support a range of grantees and partners, the views they express are their own and may not reflect the position of DZTE.