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Organization: Foodlink, Inc
Title: Director of Career Empowerment Initiatives
Nominated by: Alexandra Cicero

In her seven-year tenure with Foodlink, Jessica Scannell has been at the forefront of developing and leading the organization’s Career Empowerment work, notably growing a unique and evolving workforce development culinary program. Each day, Jes takes on multifaceted responsibilities, from overseeing the program’s high-level leadership to addressing the frontlines’ challenges. She ensures the Foodlink Career Fellowship delivers on its promise by preparing individuals with barriers to employment for middle-skill jobs in the regional food industry. Supervising a dedicated team, Jes supports active Fellows, manages concurrent cohorts, and provides ongoing assistance to the entire alum network post-graduation.

Jes’s commitment to the success of Fellows is unparalleled. Her person-centered and holistic program design and tireless efforts have transformed numerous lives. Notably, she spearheaded the creation of a state-of-the-art job training program, establishing the only certified Cook Apprenticeship in New York State.

In 2023, Jes’s impact is quantifiable and far-reaching:

  • 36 graduates
  • 12 Employer partners
  • 83% Job placement rate at graduation
  • 368 industry-recognized certifications provided (graduated and non-graduated participants)

Jes’s engagement with Catalyst Kitchens has further amplified her work. From attending conferences to networking with like-minded individuals, she leverages the resources and community offered by Catalyst Kitchens to enhance the effectiveness of her culinary job training initiatives. Jes’s dedication, innovation, and measurable achievements make her an outstanding candidate for the Catalyst for Change Award.

Read more about Jessica’s and Foodlink’s impact Learn about David Carleton and the Founder’s Fund Contribute to Catalyst Kitchens
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