Welcome Nancy Oswald, Chair of the GK Board of Directors
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Nancy E. Oswald as the new Chair of our Board of Directors. This leadership transition comes as the organization mourns the recent passing of Bill Brewster, whose invaluable leadership and contributions will be deeply missed.
In response to Bill's untimely passing, Giving Kitchen’s Board of Directors acted swiftly to implement a succession plan that ensures continuity of purpose and dedication to GK's mission. Nancy Oswald, a Trustee Emeritus and founding board member, was unanimously elected to serve as Chair. Her longstanding commitment and deep experience with Giving Kitchen underscore the board’s confidence in her vision and ability to lead the organization forward.
As Oswald steps into this role, she is guided by the same spirit of resilience that defines Giving Kitchen's origins. "Giving Kitchen was born out of tragedy and uncertainty and has consistently risen above adversity to support our community in times of need. I view stepping in as Chair at this difficult time as part of that legacy—bringing a commitment rooted in passion for Giving Kitchen’s mission and dedication to keeping our critical work going strong,” said Oswald. “Giving Kitchen is, and will always be, the place where compassion meets care for our industry. My purpose now is to ensure that we continue to show, in real and impactful ways, how deeply we in food service care for one another.”
This leadership transition comes at a critical time, as requests for assistance from Giving Kitchen have reached unprecedented levels. Food service workers are turning to GK in record numbers, seeking help amid devastation and crisis brought on by recent storms. The ability to respond to these urgent needs and provide disaster relief is one of Giving Kitchen’s proudest achievements, and Oswald’s leadership promises to sustain and expand this essential work.
“We are deeply grateful for Nancy’s leadership and unwavering dedication to our mission,” said Allison Padilla-Goodman, CEO of Giving Kitchen. “Her insights and passion have been instrumental since Giving Kitchen’s inception, and we are excited to see her guide us forward toward an exciting new future.”
Nancy Oswald’s extensive background in the industry and her commitment to Giving Kitchen’s cause reinforce GK’s pledge to be there for food service workers in their most challenging times. Under her leadership, Giving Kitchen will continue its critical role in providing the resources and relief the community needs, embodying a message of hope and solidarity within the food service industry.