Staff

Chief Executive Officer:

Alberto Cortés (he/him)

Alberto has been in the nonprofit arena for over 32 years and has broad experience in organizational management and governance. He has been leading Mama’s Kitchen since 2002. Alberto has a BA from National University and an MBA from San Diego State University. He is a veteran of the US Navy Submarine Force and sings second tenor with the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus.

Director of Volunteer Engagement:

Philip Chao (he/him)

Philip is a recent graduate from Arizona State University, with a degree in Sociology. Originally from Taiwan, Philip has called San Diego home for the last year. He is passionate about providing the critically ill population with nutrition and giving them the tools to improve their lives. He loves working with our volunteers and giving back to the community.

Director of Client Services:

Noemi Huerta (she/her)

With over six years of program management experience, Noemi Huerta leads the logistics of Mama’s Kitchen’s Medically Tailored Meal Service. She holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Science-Communications from San Diego State University. Noemi is passionate about serving her community here in San Diego. She loves being able to help and be a part of an organization that provides nutritious meals and education as a way of showing support and love to individuals.

Chief of Food Service Operations:

Jason Martini (he/him)

With an education in human nutrition and public health and classical training from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute, Jason has over 10 years’ experience as an executive chef spanning across non-profits, multi-outlet hotels, a high-volume catering company as well as his own personal chef business, focusing on fresh, local, healthful choices.

Chief Programs Officer:

Chris Nolan (she/her)

Chris Nolan has over nine years of experience implementing and coordinating programs for underserved communities in San Diego, USA, and throughout México. Chris holds a master’s degree in Peace and Justice from the University of San Diego as well as a Communications degree from Universidad Iberoamericana. Chris joined Mama’s Kitchen in 2020 and currently is the Chief Programs Officer.

Director of Development:

Jenna Novotny (she/her)

jenna@mamaskitchen.org

With over 10 years of experience in nonprofit development and marketing, Jenna has previously led development for nonprofits including San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum and Challenged Athletes Foundation. Jenna oversees development initiatives including annual giving campaigns, institutional giving, the Bread & Butter Club, and fundraising events.

Chief Financial Officer:

Kelly Sherlock (she/her)

With over 25 years of experience, Kelly oversees the financial, human resource, and IT functions of the organization. She joined Mama’s Kitchen in 2005 as a volunteer and as a staff member in 2013.  Kelly holds a Master of Arts in Non-Profit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego and serves as the Board Treasurer of Climate Action Campaign.