afpc team updates, partner spotlight & events
AFPC Welcomes New Staff: Ellen Olack, Regional Food Business Center Programs Manager
By Ellen Olack, Regional Food Business Programs Manager, AFPC
Breaking ground on the first U of M student garden.
I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the newest Alaska Food Policy Council team member! As I step into this role, I feel a mixture of excitement and gratitude because the journey that brought me here is deeply intertwined with my passion for food, justice, and community.
I hail from the vibrant state of Mississippi, where my love for food began with my mom—an enthusiastic cook and gardener who taught me the beauty of fresh ingredients and the joy of gathering around the table. From an early age, I learned that food is more than just sustenance; it’s a powerful connector that cultivates relationships and nourishes communities. Whether it was our summertime trips to the farmers market or the delicious family meals we crafted together, food has always held a special place in my heart.
My path has been shaped by experiences that emphasize my dedication to environmental justice and food systems. While at the University of Mississippi, I spearheaded our first student-led community garden and established a refrigerator for the campus food bank, ensuring that our garden’s bounty could be shared among any students in need. After graduation, I embraced my role as an AmeriCorps Member in the Office of Sustainability, where I brought composting and gardening initiatives to local schools, planting seeds of knowledge and environmental stewardship in young minds.
Following my AmeriCorps service, I ventured to California for graduate school at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, earning my Master’s in International Environmental Policy. This academic journey enriched my understanding of food systems on a broader scale and set the stage for my six years at Fresh Approach, a nonprofit dedicated to food access and education. As part of the Fresh Approach team, I had the privilege of working closely with farmers and community members, advancing local food systems and strengthening connections across diverse communities.
Serving the East Bay community during Covid with the FA MFM truck
In recent years, I served on the steering committee for the National Mobile Market Network, and launched the California Mobile Farmers Market Coalition to support food justice advocates, new and experienced alike. These experiences have fueled my passion for empowering communities and advocating for equitable food access, a mission that aligns perfectly with the goals of the Alaska Food Policy Council.
Jamming for Carquinez Quad Squad Roller Derby
Outside of work, I love to try new recipes and explore flavors and cuisines that bring people together around the table. Traveling fuels my curiosity and broadens my perspective, allowing me to witness and learn from diverse food cultures around the world. I’m also a roller derby enthusiast! The thrill of skates on the track, the teamwork, and the adrenaline are a fantastic counterbalance to my life and an excellent stress reliever.
Now, as I embark on this new chapter in Alaska, I am eager to continue my work in food systems amidst the stunning backdrop of this beautiful state. I am excited to collaborate with local farmers, community leaders, and fellow advocates committed to creating sustainable and equitable food policies for all Alaskans. I can’t wait to meet all of you, learn from your experiences, and work together to cultivate a resilient food system that nourishes our bodies and honors the rich traditions and diverse cultures that thrive in this remarkable place.
Here’s to new beginnings and delicious possibilities!
Excited to continue to explore Alaska and be closer to my brother and sister-in-law.
