Organization: Food Education Fund
Title: Program Director
Nominated by: Dr. Danielle Beam
Chef Kat is the indispensable backbone of the Food Education Fund (FEF), where she has skillfully navigated a multifaceted role for the past six years. As the primary organizer and curator of all culinary programs, she tirelessly orchestrates visiting chef demos, culinary competitions, and culinary summer camps, reaching nearly 450 students annually. Chef Kat is the epitome of dedication, providing direct support to parents, students, and a diverse community, most of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Kat’s unique attributes set her apart as an inspirational leader. Her lived experience, mirroring that of many FEF students, includes arriving in the US as an undocumented immigrant, attending a culinary high school, competing for scholarship funds, and ultimately earning her bachelor’s and additional graduate degrees at Monroe College on a full scholarship. As an inspirational figure and mentor to numerous alums, Chef Kat brings understanding and guidance that resonates deeply with those she serves.
In 2023, Chef Kat’s impact has been transformative. She has played a pivotal role in developing over 75% of FEF’s current curriculum, showcasing her commitment to innovative and effective educational approaches. Her leadership extends to spearheading the development of the culinary summer camp, providing rising freshmen with foundational culinary skills before entering a culinary CTE high school or college environment.
During the height of the pandemic, Chef Kat’s dedication shone brightly. She worked tirelessly to ensure that families within FEF’s primary partner school not only continued learning through food but also had access to nourishment. Her efforts included the meticulous delivery of meal prep kits to students for weeks on end, showcasing her commitment to the well-being of the community. Through her unwavering dedication, FEF’s reach expanded from one primary partner to three high schools and half a dozen affiliate schools.
Chef Kat is an advocate of professional development. She has utilized information shared through Catalyst Kitchens to enhance FEF’s approach to impact. Kat’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in her use of Catalyst Kitchens resources during the launch of FEF’s social enterprise, the empanadas stand. Chef Kat’s exceptional contributions to culinary education, her mentorship of students, and her innovative programming approach make her an outstanding nominee for the Catalyst for Change award.
