Meet Our Senior Advisors
As Senior Advisor with the Equity Research and Innovation Center at the Yale School of Medicine, Karen Robinson is responsible for business development and strategic planning. The Center's goals include developing and disseminating research that informs evidence-based policy and practice and supporting Yale students, faculty, and others interested in conducting state-of-the-art health equity research. Additionally, she lectures on The Business of Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder within the Population Health and Health Equity Section of the MBA for Executives- Healthcare at Yale School of Management under the auspices of Associate Dean for Health Equity Marcella Nunez-Smith, MD.
Robinson’s vocation of public policy and investment banking has been curated with an emphasis on risk management and resilience as applied to Healthcare, Human Services, and underperforming assets. In addition, she has contractually developed and executed complex quantitative and qualitative analytic performance tools deployed in the public sector and Federal Court system monitoring performance in Class Action litigation.
Her avocation has been logistics and Dignitary Protection Services in highly secure environments; advising global and domestic organizations strategizing/streamlining, credentialing, identity verification, health-related testing policies, and Duty of Care obligations. I'm a member of the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSCAC) Diplomatic Security Services and Women in Security (WIS) in the US. State Department.
Karen Robinson
Advocacy & Work (A&W) Community Solutions was established in 2001 by Arnett Woodall, a renowned Community Activist and CEO of A&W Community Solutions. In 2009, Mr. Woodall extended his efforts by founding West Phillie Produce, aiming to offer employment opportunities to young adults aged 16-24 while providing healthy resources to the public. With a background in Technology and Automotive Engineering from Thaddeus Stevenson College, he obtained licensure as a contractor, further enhancing his capacity to effect change.
A&W is committed to a comprehensive set of goals, including enhancing economic development, facilitating access to community resources and street maintenance, and establishing public safety zones through the creation of sustainable greenspaces. The organization serves as a beacon for fostering partnerships with various entities such as social service agencies, faith-based institutions, commercial enterprises, educational establishments, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Mr. Woodall's endeavors have garnered significant recognition, with features in esteemed platforms including Good Morning America, the Philadelphia Daily News, The Philadelphia Inquirer, NBC, and ABC. Over his 15-year tenure as a Youth Worker and Program Facilitator in Glen Mills, his primary focus has been advocating for youth and providing employment opportunities, catalyzing social change in their lives.
His contributions have been celebrated through accolades such as PECO's Black History Spokesman of the Year, the Martin Luther King Award in community activism from the University of Pennsylvania, and Jubilee’s School Humanitarian of the Year in 2017. While proud of his achievements, Mr. Woodall holds high expectations for his students, employees, and community members, urging them to excel as both businesspersons and community organizers, shaping the future of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Arnette Woodall
After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh with dual majors in supply chain management and marketing, Joe embarked on a diverse career journey, taking on a variety of roles in startups, corporations, small businesses, and nonprofits. Throughout his professional experiences, Joe discovered a consistent source of joy and fulfillment: the intersection of technology and food. This realization inspired him to further his education in software engineering, leading him to his current role at MANNA. Here, Joe leverages his technological expertise to implement systems that support MANNA's mission of providing medically tailored nutrition to individuals battling life-threatening illnesses.
Joe's passion for big-picture thinking is matched by his enthusiasm for tackling intricate technical problems. His ability to navigate both strategic and technical challenges positions him as a valuable asset to any team. Currently, Joe is eager to contribute to the success of TCG, bringing his unique blend of skills and experiences.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Joe is dedicated to giving back to the community. He volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Additionally, Joe enjoys practicing yoga, he cherishes spending time with his partner Caroline and their two cats, Doc and Fig. Whether he's working on complex technical projects or enjoying moments of relaxation with loved ones, Joe's multifaceted interests and dedication to his passions shine through in all aspects of his life.
Joseph Fogiato
Cole's journey into the vibrant world of Philadelphia's produce industry began with a profound passion for delicious food and fresh, high-quality produce. His enthusiasm quickly translated into a dynamic career encompassing every facet of the produce supply chain. From logistics and distribution to operations, procurement, and inventory management, Cole has honed his expertise, ensuring that the freshest produce reaches consumers efficiently and effectively.
Currently, Cole serves as the Produce Manager at Weavers Way Co-Op in Germantown, where he plays a pivotal role in the community. His work is not just about managing produce; it's about fostering a connection between people and their food, promoting health, and supporting local agriculture. At Weavers Way, Cole is dedicated to making fresh, delicious, and affordable produce accessible to his neighbors and the wider community, embodying a commitment to sustainability and community well-being.
Cole's deep understanding of the produce industry, combined with his dedication to his local community, makes him a vital piece of our TCG family. His efforts help ensure that the benefits of fresh produce are available to all, reflecting his passion and commitment to improving food systems.
Cole Corrigan
Chef, Culinary Educator, and Food Justice Advocate, Joy is a dynamic force in the culinary world, blending her industry expertise with a fervent passion for social change. A distinguished finalist of Hell’s Kitchen and a seasoned competitor on Food Network, Chef Joy has seamlessly integrated her culinary prowess with advocacy for food pathways and equality. At the forefront of her mission is the belief in the transformative power of food, particularly in underserved communities.
Collaborating with local organizations like the 215 Peoples Alliance and assisting in spearheading initiatives such as "The People’s Kitchen". Chef Joy pioneers restorative practices through food justice and service, providing not only nourishment but also educational opportunities and empowerment. Currently, as a resident chef with the Free Brunch Program in Philadelphia, Joy is dismantling systemic barriers by engaging residents in southwest Philadelphia with free food distribution, free brunch events, and educational workshops, all aimed at fostering community resilience and empowerment. In her capacity as a Culinary & Hospitality Instructor at the Community College of Philadelphia and as a board member for various esteemed organizations including Indiana University of Pennsylvania dept of HIRM OCA and CCAP- Careers through Culinary Arts and Elva Edison High School, Joy remains dedicated to shaping the next generation of culinary professionals and advocating for equitable access to education and opportunities.
Driven by the belief that education through food can inspire meaningful change, Joy's projects are rooted in a deep appreciation for the diverse flavors of the diaspora. For her, each dish is not just a meal but a catalyst for exploration, empowerment, and ultimately, transformation in homes and communities alike.
