Common Threads Expands Leadership with New National Board Members to Inspire Healthy Futures

Common Threads Expands Leadership

Common Threads, a notable nonprofit organization focused on enhancing food and nutrition education in under-served communities, has recently announced the appointment of six new members to its National Board of Directors. The addition of these distinguished individuals marks a significant step in the organization’s commitment to nutrition security across the United States. The new board members are Kate MacKenzie, Bill Kim, Pritesh Gandhi, Dr. Max Teplitski, Hugh Forrest, and Apurva Patel.

The CEO of Common Threads, Linda Novick O'Keefe, expressed her enthusiasm for the new board members, stating, "A future-forward approach to nutrition security requires all of us. I'm proud and energized to welcome our new board members, whose passion, leadership, and diverse experiences will help us navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and shape a bold new vision, one that creates healthier futures for children nationwide."

Profiles of New Board Members

1. Kate MacKenzie, MS, RD - Currently serving as the Executive Director of New York City’s Mayor’s Office of Food Policy, MacKenzie leads initiatives like Food Forward NYC, the city's first long-term food policy plan. Her innovative leadership has notably reduced the carbon footprint of city food purchases and launched initiatives aimed at enhancing food access in public schools.

2. Bill Kim - An acclaimed chef and restaurateur, Bill Kim brings a wealth of culinary expertise to the board. He is well-known for his restaurants in Chicago that merge fine dining techniques with approachable flavors. Kim also authored the award-winning cookbook, Korean BBQ Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces, showcasing his unique culinary style.

3. Pritesh Gandhi, MD, MPH - Currently the Systems Senior VP and Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer for CommonSpirit Health, Dr. Gandhi is dedicated to addressing health equity issues. His impressive background includes roles as the Chief Community Health Officer at Walmart and Chief Medical Officer at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he tackled public health challenges during national emergencies.

4. Dr. Max Teplitski - As the Chief Science Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association, Dr. Teplitski guides initiatives focused on scientific advancement, agriculture, technology, and sustainability. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and previously worked with the USDA.

5. Hugh Forrest - An influential figure in the tech and creative spheres, Hugh Forrest has been pivotal in shaping the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival into a global platform. His commitment to diversity and inclusion has significantly impacted community events, helping to raise substantial funds for local food banks.

6. Apurva Patel - Serving as the U.S. Social Impact Director at Novo Nordisk Inc., Patel leads philanthropic efforts aimed at chronic disease prevention and nutrition reform. With extensive experience in community development across multiple continents, his work has consistently focused on building resilient communities.

About Common Threads

For over 20 years, Common Threads has been at the forefront of promoting healthier living through nutrition and cooking education. The organization operates in major urban areas such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and New York. To date, Common Threads has impacted more than 700,000 participants and collaborated with over 2,200 schools and organizations, providing more than 5 million nourishing meals. Through its efforts, Common Threads upholds the belief that everyone deserves access to quality food, essential for promoting health and well-being.

To learn more about Common Threads and its initiatives, visit www.commonthreads.org or follow them on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook at @CommonThreadsOrg.