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Sheryl Rivas
Food Studies Master's Candidate at NYU
Professional Background
Sheryl Rivas is a dedicated and passionate professional with a remarkable career in the food industry, specializing in sustainable food systems, food sovereignty, and the role of technology within urban environments. With over seven years of diverse experience in edible education and urban agriculture, Sheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Currently, she is advancing her education as a Master’s candidate in Food Studies at New York University’s esteemed Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, where she delves into contemporary issues surrounding food and nutrition, preparing to contribute innovative solutions to the food systems of tomorrow.
Throughout her career, Sheryl has held several significant positions that highlight her adaptability and multifaceted skills. Her role as a Technical Support Specialist at Afresh showcases her commitment to enhancing food distribution and minimizing waste through technological solutions, effectively marrying her interests in food management and technology. Previously, she worked as a Research and Evaluation Associate at Farm to Institution New England, where she focused on improving systems that connect food producers with institutions while promoting sustainable practices across the food supply chain.
Beyond her professional roles, Sheryl has a deep-rooted passion for education and mentoring. Her experience as a Culinary Instructor at Keys To Abundant Life and a Garden Instructor at Brooklyn Botanic Garden illustrates her dedication to fostering a connection between communities and the natural world through hands-on learning experiences. These roles allow her to engage with diverse audiences, teaching the importance of food literacy and sustainability.
Sheryl’s early career included a dynamic stint as the Kitchen Manager at People’s Pops, where she honed her culinary skills and learned the significance of local sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and responsible food preparation techniques. She has also contributed her expertise as the Head of Pastry at Superiority Burger, further showcasing her culinary talents within the New York City food scene. The combination of her practical experience in culinary arts with her academic pursuits uniquely positions her as a thought leader in the intersection of food, culture, and health.
Education and Achievements
Sheryl Rivas holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology with a focus on Social, Cultural, and Critical Theory from Wesleyan University. This educational background has equipped her with critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of how societal structures impact food systems and behaviors. At Wesleyan, she engaged with a rigorous curriculum that emphasized critical analysis and social justice frameworks, laying a strong foundation for her ongoing work in food studies.
Currently pursuing her Master’s degree at NYU, Sheryl is involved in research that addresses pressing issues concerning urban food environments, urban agriculture, and technology's role in improving access to healthy food. Her commitment to food sovereignty reflects a deep understanding of the systemic challenges faced by underserved communities, and she actively seeks to advocate for equitable food systems through both her academic research and professional endeavors.
Sheryl’s background in both psychology and food studies provides her with a distinct lens through which to approach complex food-related issues. Through her studies at NYU, she is continually exploring innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and educational outreach.
Achievements
- Technical Support Specialist at Afresh: Sheryl leverages technology to enhance food distribution efficiency, focusing on reducing food wastage and improving sustainability practices within the food industry.
- Research and Evaluation Associate at Farm to Institution New England: In this role, she contributed to projects that promote sustainable food sourcing for institutions, reinforcing the importance of local and responsible food systems.
- Culinary Education Roles: Sheryl has served as a Culinary Instructor for various organizations, sharing her knowledge of food systems, cooking techniques, and nutrition with a wide range of audiences, from children to adults.
- Leadership in Culinary Roles: As the Head of Pastry at Superiority Burger and Kitchen Manager at People’s Pops, she developed innovative menu items focusing on sustainable ingredients and culinary creativity.
- Engagement with Community Organizations: Sheryl has worked with organizations like Slow Food USA, emphasizing the principles of fair food access and the preservation of culinary traditions.
Sheryl Rivas is not only a dedicated advocate for sustainable food systems but also a strong voice for community engagement and educational initiatives within the food sector. Her journey through the intersections of food, culture, and technology continues to inspire those around her as she strives to foster a more sustainable and equitable food landscape.
tags':['food studies','sustainable food systems','urban agriculture','edible education','NYU Steinhardt','culinary instructor','technical support specialist','research associate','food sovereignty','Wesleyan University','community engagement','food justice','culinary arts','food technology','local sourcing','seasonal ingredients'],'questions':['How has Sheryl Rivas applied her background in psychology to her research in food studies?','What innovative solutions is Sheryl Rivas developing to address sustainable food systems during her studies at NYU?','In what ways has Sheryl Rivas contributed to the community through her culinary instruction?','How did Sheryl Rivas’s experience in urban agriculture influence her perspective on food sovereignty?','What are the key projects Sheryl Rivas has worked on at Farm to Institution New England that have had a lasting impact on sustainable food sourcing?']} Ultimately, Sheryl Rivas is a remarkable figure making significant contributions to the food industry, using her education and extensive experience to tackle pressing issues within the realm of food sustainability and equity. Her journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the impact that one individual can have when fueled by passion and purpose. As a candid advocate for transformative change in food systems, Sheryl Rivas exemplifies the qualities of a leader committed to fostering food justice and bridging the gaps in accessibility and sustainability within urban environments. Whether through her educational pursuits, community engagement, or professional contributions, Sheryl remains devoted to shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for food across all spectra of society.
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