Karen Pandy-Cherry

As Acting President and CEO of New Leaders Council (NLC), I am honored to lead a national nonprofit organization committed to empowering a “new kind of leader”, passionate about driving social change. With over 13,000 alumni who represent a diversity of identities, industries, and issue areas in chapters nationwide, NLC believes in fostering collaboration and impact among the leaders closest to their communities' lived experiences.

Alongside my work at NLC, I also co-founded Chef Kulture with my husband, Chef Chad Cherry, a movement network that supports BIPOC professionals in the culinary industry. Chef Kulture aims to build sustainable, community-focused businesses that improve the health, economic stability, and environment of BIPOC neighborhoods. This initiative is a continuation of my lifelong dedication to equity, spanning nonprofit leadership and entrepreneurship.

I hold a Juris Doctor from St. Thomas University Law School and a BA in Organizational Leadership and Group Communications from Trinity International University. In addition to my professional roles, I am a National Speaker, Certified LEAD Facilitator, Small Business and Organizational Development Strategist, and Leadership Development Coach. My work is driven by a passion for advancing equity, developing leaders, and fostering sustainable social impact in communities across the nation.

I am also a proud wife and mother of three: Kytana (27), Kyrsten (20), and Zyon (11).