Mieka Sanderson

Mieka Sanderson is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in program management and analysis within public health and agricultural sectors. Currently serving as Program Manager at the Appalachian Regional Commission since November 2018, Mieka oversees a significant grant portfolio aimed at economically distressed communities, focusing on local food systems and recreational tourism. Previous roles include Team Lead at the USDA-Agricultural Marketing Service, where Mieka managed a $665 million grant program for COVID-19 relief, and Program Analyst at USDA, administering a national Farm to School Grant Program. Mieka's expertise also encompasses policy analysis and technical assistance in child nutrition at the Food Research and Action Center and experience in health-related strategic alliances with the Clinton Foundation. Mieka holds a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Yale University.