FBCM Welcomes Dr. Sheril Kirshenbaum as Chief External Relations Officer

Dr. Sheril Kirshenbaum has joined the Food Bank Council of Michigan as Chief External Relations Officer.

In the newly created role, Kirshenbaum will help advance FBCM’s advocacy priorities, build strategic partnerships, expand philanthropic support and strengthen relationships with policymakers, funders and community leaders across Michigan.

“Sheril brings a rare combination of experience, curiosity and the ability to connect people around ideas that matter,” said Dr. Phil Knight, CEO of the Food Bank Council of Michigan. “I have long believed that nothing of significance happens except through relationships, and Sheril understands how to build those relationships and turn them into action. Her leadership will strengthen FBCM’s voice, broaden our influence and help create new opportunities to advance food security across Michigan. We are excited to welcome her to our team.”

“I have long admired the Food Bank Council of Michigan and its work, and I am honored to join the team,” Kirshenbaum said. “I’m looking forward to learning from food banks and partners across the state, building on the tremendous work already underway, and helping advance a more food-secure future for Michigan.”

Kirshenbaum’s background spans public policy, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, science and nonprofit leadership. Most recently, she served as Senior Fellow for Science Policy and Communication at Michigan State University and, from 2024 to 2025, as a Council on Foreign Relations International Affairs Fellow in the office of U.S. Sen. Gary Peters. She previously led Science Debate, a national nonprofit, as CEO. Kirshenbaum holds a Ph.D. in Community Sustainability from Michigan State University, where she will remain an adjunct faculty member. She also hosted the Emmy Award-winning PBS food series Serving Up Science.