The Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center has announced its fifth annual NYC Food Policy Changemaker award: one NYC food policy and practice leader who is working to transform the food system. Nominees are policymakers, educators, community advocates, farmers, innovators and more, who are making significant strides to create healthier, more sustainable food environments, and who use food to promote community and economic development. This year’s award, presented by Hunter President Jennifer J. Raab, goes to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
Mayor Eric Adams has served the people of New York City as an NYPD officer, State Senator, Brooklyn Borough President, and now as the 110th Mayor of the City of New York. He gave voice to a diverse coalition of working families in all five boroughs and is leading the fight to bring back New York City’s economy, reduce inequality, improve public safety, and build a stronger, healthier city that delivers for all New Yorkers.
In addition to continuing to fight for struggling New Yorkers and a better quality of life for all, Mayor Adams became a national leader on public health policy after learning he had developed Type 2 diabetes. Following his diagnosis, Mayor Adams completely changed his diet and his body, reversing the disease and launching a personal mission to educate New Yorkers about preventative care and wellness. His work has already led to successful proactive public health efforts across the city and increased education in schools and with high-risk populations in lower-income areas, partnering with civic organizations and health experts.
Pronouns: he/him
Grew up in: Born in Brownsville, Brooklyn and raised in South Jamaica, Queens
Job Title/Organization or Company: Mayor of the City of New York
Background and Education: Eric Adams received his master’s degree in public administration from Marist College and is a graduate of New York City Technical College and the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He is also a proud product of New York City public schools, including Bayside High School in Queens.
One word you would use to describe our food system: Inequitable
Food policy hero: Dr. Esselstyn
Your breakfast this morning: Kale and blueberry smoothie
Favorite food: Lentil stew with all of the vegetables
Favorite last meal on Earth: Ice cream made from frozen bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder
Favorite food hangout and why: Uptown Veg on 125th because they’re an institution for healthy eating in Harlem.
Social media must follow: @nycmayor and @nycfood
