Lisa Gonzalez grew up as part of a farming family in Maryland and has worked in agriculture most of her life. This includes decades of experience farming in both rural and urban landscapes.  Lisa recently left a 12-year career with the Cooperative Extension Service where she worked as an Agriculture Agent, Local Food Systems Specialist and County Extension Director. Lisa’s Extension work focused on conducting educational programs and building connections within local food systems.  Her areas of expertise within Extension included organic fruit and vegetable production, sustainable pasture management, food safety, agritourism, agricultural business planning and helping farmers connect to new market opportunities.

In addition to providing education around agriculture topics, Lisa has been heavily involved in food policy work for over a decade. This has involved contributing to local food policy councils and grassroots campaigns around nutrition and agriculture policy. She holds degrees and certifications in Environmental Studies, Teaching, Nutrition, and Medical Herbalism. She is currently completing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Western Carolina University.