Common Threads Welcomes Six New National Board Members

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Common Threads, the nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to advancing food and nutrition education in under-resourced communities, proudly announces the appointment of six new members to its National Board of Directors: Kate MacKenzie, Bill Kim, Pritesh Gandhi, Dr. Max Teplitski, Hugh Forrest, and Apurva Patel.

"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," said Common Threads CEO, Linda Novick O'Keefe.

Kate MacKenzie, MS, RD serves as Executive Director of New York City's Mayor's Office of Food Policy, where she advises on citywide food policy and leads initiatives such as Food Forward NYC, the city's first 10-year food policy plan. Her leadership has reduced the carbon footprint of city food purchases, launched Plant-Powered Fridays in public schools, and strengthened the city's emergency food system. A graduate of Columbia University and Cornell University, MacKenzie is known for building coalitions across sectors to address food insecurity. She is also the mother of two NYC public school students, both proud school lunch eaters.

Bill Kim is an acclaimed chef and restaurateur celebrated for blending fine dining techniques with bold, approachable flavors. A graduate of Triton and Kendall Colleges, he trained under culinary icons such as Charlie Trotter before launching Chicago favorites like urbanbelly, Belly Shack, and bellyQ. His award-winning cookbook, Korean BBQ: Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces, reflects his playful, globally inspired style. Kim continues to expand his culinary footprint both in the U.S. and internationally, using food as a bridge between cultures and communities.

Pritesh Gandhi, MD, MPH currently serves as the Systems Senior VP and Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer for CommonSpirit Health. He is a physician leader with extensive experience across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, committed to improving health equity for underserved communities. Gandhi served as the Chief Community Health Officer at Walmart, he has also served as Chief Medical Officer at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, leading health security operations during national emergencies. A Fulbright Scholar and Presidential Leadership Scholar, Gandhi is recognized for turning complex policy challenges into actionable solutions. He continues to practice medicine and mentor the next generation of health leaders.

Dr. Max Teplitski is Chief Science Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association, guiding global programs in science, agriculture, technology, and sustainability. Formerly with the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, he has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and earned awards for his groundbreaking work in environmental microbiology. A Fulbright Specialist and sought-after speaker, Teplitski is committed to advancing food safety and sustainability through innovation. He also serves as Courtesy Faculty at the University of Florida's Plant Pathology Department.

Hugh Forrest spent over three decades shaping South by Southwest (SXSW) into a global platform where technology, culture, and creativity converge. As former President and Chief Programming Officer, he expanded the event's international reach and championed diversity and inclusion within the creative industries. Forrest's civic leadership includes service on nonprofit boards, raising over $1 million for the Central Texas Food Bank through the Austin Reggae Festival. His work reflects a deep belief in the power of community and collaboration to spark lasting change.

Apurva Patel is U.S. Social Impact Director at Novo Nordisk Inc., where he leads philanthropic investments focused on chronic disease prevention, nutrition, and food system reform for vulnerable populations. With more than 25 years in global community development, Patel has led large-scale initiatives in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the U.S. for organizations such as the American Red Cross. His career reflects a commitment to building healthier, more resilient communities through partnerships that drive systemic change.

About Common Threads

Common Threads is a nationally recognized nonprofit that champions better community health through the transformative power of food. For over two decades, we have empowered children and families with cooking and nutrition education to foster lifelong wellness, guided by the belief that access to quality food is a fundamental human right. Operating in cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and New York, we have reached over 700,000 participants, partnered with more than 2,200 schools and organizations, and provided over 5 million nourishing meals. Learn more at www.commonthreads.org, and @CommonThreadsOrg (Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook)

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SOURCE Common Threads