Meet Our Team
The passionate individuals behind Root's mission to transform lives through culinary training.
Leadership Team
Our dedicated leadership team brings together expertise in culinary arts, nonprofit management, and youth development.
Jennifer Eddy
Founder
Jennifer founded Root inspired by a training restaurant in Cambodia. A culinary arts professional, she lives on a farm in Ipswich and remains passionate about empowering youth through food service training.
Faith Emerson
Interim Executive Director
Faith also serves as the Director of Development and Communications, bringing over 20 years of nonprofit volunteer experience and community involvement to Root's mission.
Merlinda Marseille Philippe
Director of Programs
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit youth development, Merlinda oversees Root's programs. Her bilingual skills help her connect with diverse populations in our community.
Culinary Team
Our expert culinary professionals provide world-class training and mentorship to our program participants.
Keith Seeber
Culinary Director
Keith is a North Shore chef with extensive hospitality experience. He leads our culinary training program, sharing his expertise and passion for food with our students.
Mogorosi Moremong
Program Manager
Originally from Botswana, Mogorosi brings 17 years of kitchen experience to Root. His global perspective enriches our culinary program and inspires our students.
Kellie Silva
Kitchen Manager
A culinary arts graduate with experience in professional kitchens, Kellie manages our kitchen operations and helps students develop practical skills for success in the food service industry.
Administrative Team
The dedicated professionals who keep Root's operations running smoothly.
Sam Hunt
Director of Social Enterprise
Sam oversees Root's social enterprise initiatives, helping to create sustainable revenue streams while providing real-world experience for our program participants.
Derek Almeida
Director of Finance and Administration
Derek manages Root's financial operations and administrative functions, ensuring organizational stability and accountability to our donors and stakeholders.
Mihail Vasilev
Alumni Services Manager
Mihail supports Root graduates as they transition into careers, providing ongoing mentorship, job placement assistance, and professional development opportunities.
Caitlin Bayer
Development Manager
Caitlin manages Root's fundraising initiatives, cultivating relationships with donors and securing resources to sustain and grow our programs.
Samantha Johanson
Events and Facilities Manager
Samantha coordinates Root's events and manages our facilities, creating opportunities for community engagement and ensuring a functional learning environment.
Root Kitchen Team
Where our program comes to life with skilled graduates leading the way.
The Root Kitchen crew includes several graduates: Shift Lead David (Summer '20), Cooks Chanelle (Spring '22) and Mason (Spring '23); and Lauren (Winter '24) and Amari (Winter '24), who are in the Alumni Employment Program.
This team is the power behind Root's Retail and Community Catering, and they serve as role models to our current trainees who join them in community meal production one day each week.
Throughout the year, this team is joined by many other per-diem alumni employees who support Root's retail catering on and off-site.
Join Our Team
Root is always looking for passionate individuals who share our commitment to transforming lives through culinary training and addressing food insecurity in our community.
Whether you're a culinary professional, program manager, or administrative expert, we invite you to explore career opportunities with Root.
View Open PositionsOur Values
- Empowerment: We believe in the potential of every young person to succeed.
- Community: We foster a supportive environment for learning and growth.
- Excellence: We maintain high standards in our training and food production.
- Innovation: We continuously seek new ways to enhance our impact.