Ryan Shadrick Wilson has been referred to as “the good food whisperer” because of the quiet yet significant role she has played in launching many of the innovative ideas and companies shaping the food revolution. Throughout a career that has spanned law, civil rights, public policy, marketing, philanthropy, and finance, Ryan has maintained a devotion to creating a healthier, happier, and more equitable future.

Ryan is the founder and CEO of Boardwalk Collective and the Chairperson of Territory Foods—a healthy meal delivery food tech company. She serves on the Board of Directors of public company Acon S2 — a sustainability-focused acquisition company. And, she serves on the advisory boards of numerous companies, including Apeel Sciences, Brightseed, Plenty, RightRice, and Treasure 8, as well several nonprofit organization boards, including Feeding America and ReFed. In addition, as a Senior Advisor to the Milken Institute, Ryan launched — and now serves as Chairperson of — Feeding Change, an effort to catalyze a more nourishing, sustainable, and equitable food system.

Previously, Ryan served as Chief Strategy Officer and General Counsel of Michelle Obama’s Partnership for a Healthier America, where she worked with CEOs, celebrities, government officials, and health experts to improve health in all communities. During this time, Ryan was an architect of the innovative FNV campaign, which engaged over 85 celebrities in a humorous, national campaign to promote fruits and vegetables.

Ryan began her career at international law firm Hogan Lovells, where she counseled food and agriculture companies around the globe. While at the firm, she also maintained a commitment to a robust pro bono practice, handling civil rights, death penalty, and political asylum cases.

Ryan is a proud graduate of Virginia Beach Public Schools and graduated with honors from Princeton University and Harvard Law School.