Suggestions
Angela McKee-Brown
Executive Director at The Edible Schoolyard Project
Professional Background
Angela McKee-Brown is a dedicated and passionate leader in the field of food studies, with a robust career centered around education, innovation, and the integration of sustainable food systems. Currently serving as the Executive Director of The Edible Schoolyard Project, Angela focuses on empowering students through hands-on learning experiences that advocate for a healthier, more sustainable food culture. Her journey in education and civic innovation has been marked by a series of progressive leadership roles, demonstrating her commitment to promoting food literacy and equitable access to healthy food.
Before assuming her current role, Angela held multiple key positions within The Edible Schoolyard Project, starting as the Director of Education, where she crafted educational programs that engage students in school gardens and cooking projects. Her visionary leadership as Deputy Executive Director helped to expand the organization’s reach, increasing its impact in schools and communities across the nation. Angela's expertise in cultivating educational approaches has made significant strides in the movement toward integrating gardening and healthy eating into the preschool and K-12 education systems.
Education and Achievements
Angela’s academic background lays a strong foundation for her work in food systems and education. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from The George Washington University, where she developed a keen understanding of cultural practices and societal structures. This educational experience informs her approach to understanding food as a critical factor in culture and community life.
Furthering her expertise, Angela pursued a Master’s degree in Food Studies and Food Systems from New York University. This rigorous program deepened her understanding of the complexities surrounding food systems and prepared her to advocate for systemic changes within the food landscape. Additionally, her study abroad experience at Universidad de Granada enriched her global perspective on food practices and cultural traditions.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Angela has been recognized for her innovative contributions to food education and civic engagement. Her time as a Civic Innovation Fellow at the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford (d.school) equipped her with design thinking methodologies that she applies to problem-solving in educational contexts.
As Director of Innovation and Strategy at The Future Dining Experience, she leveraged her strategic thinking to enhance dining experiences through creativity and innovation. Her role as Project Manager further emphasized her ability to lead initiatives that challenge conventional food narratives and practices.
Previously, as Sales Strategy Manager at La Cocina, Angela honed her business acumen, driving sales and community engagement for an organization that supports food entrepreneurs, particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds. This position equipped her with essential skills in marketing and business strategy, critical for running successful educational and nonprofit initiatives.
Conclusion
Angela McKee-Brown stands out as a transformative leader at the intersection of food systems, education, and community engagement. Her diverse and extensive experience positions her aptly to continue influencing the field and shaping the future of food education. Through her leadership at The Edible Schoolyard Project and past roles, she embodies the ideals of fostering a healthier, more connected world through food, making her an essential voice in contemporary discussions about nutrition, sustainability, and education.
