Five Fab Questions for Foundation Staff: Emily Yu

Emily Yu is the Foundation’s Chief Partnerships and Program Officer. She brings over two decades of social sector expertise, including having founded AI PRIORI^®, a B2B and B2C SaaS platform that helps changemakers identify the most relevant information across all their documents and generate insights for greater impact. She also served as the Executive Director of The BUILD Health Challenge^® and Managing Director of Partnerships at the de Beaumont Foundation. These community-led and cross-sector partnerships resulted in more than 100 new legislative policies, organizational policies, and funding opportunities.

Question 1: What is your role at the Foundation?

I help bring the Foundation’s vision to life through partnerships and programs. I work on developing the grant cycles and supporting our grantee partners. These efforts enable us to fulfill the mission of the organization—nourishing and transforming the lives of children—and support communities through network building, resources, and funding.

Question 2: What sparked your interest in social impact and working for Newman’s Own Foundation?

I’ve always been a fan of Newman’s Own as a brand, company, and foundation, so a chance to contribute to this work was an opportunity I couldn’t pass by. It embodies my personal mission to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and thrive. 

Question 3: What are your priorities for 2024?

I want to learn all about the history and content of the Foundation, and I am most excited about strengthening the networks that are working on Indigenous food justice and school nutrition, and providing children with joyful experiences. For 2024, I want to signal to our grantee partners and those working in these areas that we are excited to contribute to these sectors. Coming out of the pandemic, these are challenging times for nonprofits. I want to help support this work in meaningful ways and build relationships to support long-term goals, because the issues will take many years to address.

Question 4: What dish can you make from scratch without having to look at a recipe?

I am really good at making creative omelets! I like to make an Asian-style one with edamame, pickled onions, and eggplant for example. I also love adding cheddar or feta cheese, plus Newman’s Own salsa on top! They pretty much make anything taste better.

Question 5: What’s your favorite Paul Newman film or role?

I like the Cars series, and his character, Doc Hudson. I watched it on repeat with my daughter, who is now nine, so the films are really meaningful to me.