a new chapter is being written

Our Mission

The M.F.K. Fisher Foundation has been formed to preserve and promote the enduring legacy of author M.F.K. Fisher, exploring the deep connections between hunger - both physical and intellectual - and the human experience. We celebrate and honor her belief that food is far more than sustenance by seeking to support those who embrace her sensuous, thoughtful approach to life. We carry forward her legacy, inspiring a world where the hunger for meaning, beauty, nourishment, and love is met with wisdom, passion, and a reverence for living life to its fullest.

In its first year, the Foundation is honored to have been asked to assume stewardship of the M.F.K. Fisher Emerging Writers Contest. The contest encourages writers of all ages to explore their creative voice and, during its first six years, attracted participants of all ages from around the world. Winners of the 2026 M.F.K. Fisher Emerging Writers Contest will be announced July 3, 2026, on what would have been Fisher’s 118th birthday.

The M.F.K. Fisher Foundation will lay the groundwork for a lasting literary and cultural legacy—championing emerging writers, expanding access to M.F.K. Fisher’s work through libraries and community spaces, and launching education and outreach initiatives that bring her ideas to life. Central to this effort is the development of an M.F.K. Fisher Oral History Project, preserving the voices and stories that carry her influence forward.

We look forward to inspiring future generations to live thoughtfully, eat well, and embrace the beauty and meaning in everyday life.

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

The M.F.K. Fisher Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization as determined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

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Kennedy Friede Golden, President

Kennedy Friede Golden has enjoyed three separate careers to date: one in technical theatre- culminating as an Equity Stage Manager; an extended career at a small women’s College- culminating as Associate Dean of Students; and, a most rewarding experience working with elders' social and end-of-life issues. She is also M.F.K. Fisher’s younger daughter.

Alex Wright, Vice President

Alex Wright is a writer and storyteller with more than two decades of experience communicating excellence and impact in healthcare and philanthropy. The grandson of M.F.K. Fisher and Successor Trustee of her literary trust, he has also lent his expertise to several boards and commissions dedicated to culture and community.

Clark Wolf, Secretary/Treasurer

Clark Wolf is a James Beard Award-winning food and restaurant consultant, has served on boards and been a founding member of a number of food and community related non-profits. He helped develop and launch the country’s first Food Studies program, at NYU, and is a host on several regional radio stations, including KRCB, Northern California’s NPR station.

Jerry Anne Di Vecchio

Jerry Anne Di Vecchio is a food and wine editor, author, consultant, and teacher. She retired as Sunset Magazine’s Food/Wine Editor after four decades (emeritus contributor for 15 more years). Jerry is the co-founder of San Francisco Les Dames d’ Escoffier and is honored as a Grande Dame. She has held board or executive roles for many national food and wine groups; consulted for major food and product companies; and taught extensively including for University of California Extension service and California community colleges.

Mark Tarpey-Schwed

Mark Tarpey-Schwed is a founder of the Last House project at ACR/All Hands Ecology, a retired litigation specialist, gardener, cook, parent and environmental conservation advocate.