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Grow Food Northampton Expands Leadership with New Board Appointments
NORTHAMPTON, MA – January 19, 2026 – Grow Food Northampton, a leading nonprofit dedicated to food justice and a robust local food system, has announced the appointment of three new members to it’s board of directors: dan Cannity, Hellen Muma, and Mark Seifried. These appointments bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to addressing food insecurity and fostering a more equitable food landscape in the greater Northampton area.
Strengthening the Foundation: Meet the New Board Members
The new board members were selected for their demonstrated dedication to social justice, public health, and community building. Their combined experience will be instrumental in guiding grow Food Northampton’s strategic direction and expanding its impact.
Dan Cannity: Champion of Social Justice
Dan Cannity brings a long-standing commitment to social justice causes to the board. He previously served as co-chair of the Northampton Policing Review commission, demonstrating his dedication to community advocacy and systemic change. A frequent visitor to Grow Food Northampton’s markets, Cannity appreciates the organization’s role in fostering community connections and providing access to fresh, local produce. He expressed his enthusiasm for supporting Grow Food Northampton’s efforts to create inclusive and vibrant spaces.
Hellen Muma: Public Health and Food Equity Advocate
Hellen Muma is a public health professional currently serving as a public health policy associate with the Springfield food Policy Council. Her work centers on dismantling barriers to food access and promoting policies that prioritize community health and equity. muma holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (2023) and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the same institution (2024). Her personal connection to farming, rooted in her upbringing alongside her Kenyan immigrant parents, deeply informs her belief that access to nourishing food is a essential right.
Mark Seifried: community Builder and Food Systems advocate
Mark Seifried has been actively involved in organic gardening and local food systems as the 1980s. His experience extends to restaurant operation, food pantry management, and soup kitchen leadership, highlighting his passion for building community thru food. Currently, Seifried serves as
