Left to Right: Stephanie Diaz and Monica Leung
We’re thrilled to welcome Stephanie and Monica to the team! Their arrival comes at a time of significant growth for TSC, and their financial and administrative expertise is just what we need as we embark on a new chapter of promoting healthier communities through culinary education.
Stephanie Diaz, Finance and Operations Administrator
“Food has the power to set the tone for quality of life, especially during early childhood and adolescence. As someone who grew up in a food desert, I was lucky to have been exposed to the power of food sovereignty during college, so I could educate and empower myself and my health. I’m thrilled to be working for an organization that creates similar experiences for young people across New York City and upstate.”
Stephanie was born and raised between 24-hour bodegas in Queens and delivery menus in Manhattan. It wasn’t until studying Earth and Environmental Sciences at Wesleyan University that she realized how disconnected and unhealthful her urban upbringing had been in regards to food. This sparked her passion for food education and led her to create a career working for organizations that promote food sovereignty. Before joining The Sylvia Center, Stephanie was proud to work for The TEAK Fellowship, Friends of Spannocchia, Growing Underground, Brooklyn Grange, and City Growers. After business hours, she enjoys going to concerts and playing social deduction games!
Monica Leung, Programs Administrator
“I’m in awe of the work TSC has been doing over the past two decades, and I really look forward to helping the organization during this key period of growth and development! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for TSC’s future alongside my wonderful teammates.”
Monica is a sociocultural researcher with a focus on how food and language cultures evolve and are preserved by way of migration. She holds an MA in Migration and Diaspora Studies and aspires to reenter academia by pursuing a food studies PhD in the near future. In the meantime, she splits her weeks supporting programs at The Sylvia Center, cooking at home, and chatting about all things food and culture at the Museum of Food and Drink, where she is also a Visitor Services Associate.
Welcome to the team!
Learn more about the Sylvia Center Team
