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Organization: Root NS, Inc.
Title: Culinary Director
Nominated by: Faith Emerson

Keith Seeber plays a pivotal role at Root with the most direct connection to trainees and alumni employees. Over his two-year tenure, Chef Keith’s daily responsibilities include supervising and mentoring the Alumni Kitchen Team in the morning—comprising 8-10 Root graduates—and teaching culinary curriculum to current trainees in the afternoon. Additionally, he serves as the primary mentor for Root’s Culinary Program Assistant, a role tailored for a Root graduate supporting the training program team.


Keith’s unique attributes set him apart. His passion for food is infectious, resonating with students, alumni, and anyone who enters the kitchen. Bringing a wealth of experience from various facets of the hospitality industry, Keith has managed restaurants as both an Executive Chef and General Manager. He has handled event catering, led large foodservice outfits, and contributed to recipe research and development. Education has consistently been at the core of his approach to team building and organizational development.


This year Keith is leading the charge to design and build out Root’s Alumni Employment Program, creating job descriptions, adding employment benefits, working on a career ladder,  implementing regular reviews and check-ins, creating a Community Contract for the team, and providing concrete opportunities for professional development, such as Serv Safe Manager certification. This resulted in the first promotion of one of our Alumni Kitchen Team members to Shift Lead! 

Catalyst Kitchens membership has played a crucial role in amplifying Root’s impact. Engagement with peer organizations through IDEA groups and access to resources on the CK website has been invaluable. The Regional Summit, attended by Root’s Program team member Jesse Lauden, provided inspiration and ideas to enhance their collaborative efforts. Chef Keith and Jesse, working closely together, have found the CK community to be a fantastic resource for sharing best practices and addressing shared challenges in their work.

Chef Keith’s dedication led to his recent promotion to Culinary Director, a testament to his contributions and potential within the organization. We are honored to nominate him for the David Carleton Catalyst for Change Award.

Read more about Keith’s and Root’s impact Learn about David Carleton and the Founder’s Fund Contribute to Catalyst Kitchens
Toya Crosby, Reconcile New Orleans

Toya Crosby embodies the essence of dedication, passion, and excellence in her role at Reconcile New Orleans. What truly sets her apart is her unique ability to build authentic relationships with the students she works with. She doesn’t just mentor or educate; she connects on a personal level, creating a supportive and empowering environment for young adults striving to build a better future. Toya’s commitment to these relationships is unwavering, and her presence brings a sense of stability and trust to the environment.

Delphia Brewton, Blessings Restaurant

Chef Delphia’s daily commitment to Blessings From My Heart To Your Table is truly exceptional. From being the first to arrive and the last to leave, she selflessly dedicates herself to the survivors of abuse in the program. Her role is multi-faceted and vital. Delphia meticulously manages inventory, ensuring that supplies and resources are readily available. She provides comprehensive wrap-around services, offering not just culinary training but also emotional and practical support to the survivors.