Carol Kowalchuk
My late husband and I founded Food for Thought in 2002. We worked hard and enjoyed a good life, and couldn’t believe when we heard that school children in Alberta were going hungry. When life is good to you, you try to give back. We took a box of oranges to Sifton school—and the rest is history. I am proud of how we have kept the program simple and have now expanded it to twelve schools.
I am retired and spend much of my time playing bridge, painting, and gardening.
Kristine Kowalchuk
I have been on the Food for Thought board since 2010. My roles are in strategic direction, communications, and the establishment of high nutritional standards (including the focus on organic foods on the grocery order forms).
I have a PhD in English, focusing on 17th-century cookbooks, and am an adjunct professor at the University of Alberta, as well as a full-time teacher at NAIT. My research now focuses on cultural connections with nature, including through food systems.
In my spare time, I cycle, run, and cross-country ski. I am also the chair of the River Valley Conservation Coalition and an active member in Pesticide Free Edmonton.
Kelly Kowalchuk
My parents started Food for Thought over a decade ago. My dad was especially passionate about Food for Thought and we were very close, so when he passed away of cancer in 2010 I knew I wanted to get involved in a greater capacity. I help manage the program's strategy, manage sponsor relations, and keep track of the finances.
Professionally, I've worked in marketing in the tech industry for over 20 years.
When not working or volunteering, I love spending time with my animals (I have a horse and a cat), cycling, and cross-country skiing.
Wendy Hildebrandt—
Honourary Past Contributor
Wendy joined the Food for Thought board in 2007 when we supported seven schools and Bernie Kowalchuk was actively involved. Over the years, Wendy's contributions were numerous, including submitting the eventual winning entry for a gold Laurel Award that took Food for Thought to a new level. Wendy decided to step down in 2022 but, as she says "I will continue to be an advocate promoting Food for Thought every chance I get." We will miss Wendy's positive personality and can-do attitude. We wish her the best.
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