Food Policy Advisory Board Members
Board Chair:
Jamie Breidenbach - Operations & Finance Manager, United Way of Missoula County
I believe that affordable access to local food is in the best interest of the health of our community and those who live here. Advocating for a healthy local food community is a passion, both personally and professionally.
Board Vice Chair:
Alexandra Brown - Program Development Coordinator, Rocky Mountain Gardens
In the face of climate instability, ensuring a thriving local food system is more important than ever. I want to lend a hand in providing that for all Missoulians, especially the generations to come.
Board Members:
Anastasia Orkwiszewski - University of Montana Campus Dining Gardens Manager
I am an avid grower, cook, baker, and eater. I am happy to help get more healthy, affordable food into the hands of Missoulians as well as support local farmers. We are so lucky to have our strong foodshed, and we need to work to preserve it and help it grow.
Austin Skeens - Program Assistant, Ecology Project International
I care about local food and making it easier for everyone to access healthy, sustainable options. I’ve spent years farming, running food access programs, and working with communities across Missoula, and I love finding practical ways to connect people to the food they eat. I’m excited to bring that experience and perspective to the FPAB to help strengthen our local food system.
Blake Lineweaver - Cooperative Development Program Manager, Mission West Community Development Partners
I am excited to learn and support a resilient and robust food system for Missoula alongside our regional network of producers, consumers, and community stakeholders.
Erika Berglund - Research Manager at JG Research & Evaluation
I became involved with MFPAB because I see food systems as being the lifeblood of communities. I believe community-driven food policy solutions have the ability to enhance, grow, and nourish Missoula's food system in such a way that generates regional self-reliance by supporting all residents in accessing healthy, nutritious food; local producers and food businesses to thrive; and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Josh Slotnick (Ex-Officio) - Missoula County Commissioner
Starting this board was my project. Before being elected to my first term as a County Commissioner, I taught in the Environmental Studies program at the University of Montana. I ran the PEAS farm and was a co-founder of both the PEAS farm and Garden City Harvest. I was also a partner in my family's farm, Clark Fork Organics, for many years.
Tom Andres - Instructor, Missoula County Public Schools Agriculture Education Center
Virginia Harris - Social Worker, Missoula Public Library
Food and farming are the backbone of the community, and I am excited to support Missoula's commitment to supporting local food access and preserving agricultural land.
