Culinary Angels Hires Sakhiy as Executive Director

Tri-Valley, the nonprofit cancer patient support organization Culinary Angels, has confirmed the selection of Mansoor Sakhiy as its new executive director.

Sakhiy, who has more than 16 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, most recently serving as CEO of Dublin-based Orphans In Need, replaces Culinary Angels founder Lisa McNaney, who announced plans to step down as executive director earlier this year.

Sakhiy said in a news release last week that he was “extremely honored” to join the nonprofit, which provides free, healthy meals to cancer patients and their caregivers in Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville.

“The mission of providing nutritious meals to people battling cancer resonates deeply with me. I am honored to work with such dedicated staff, volunteers, and board members who have played such an integral role in helping us achieve this impactful mission,” added Sakhiy. “A special thanks to founder Lisa McNaney for her vision and leadership in building such an incredible organization. I look forward to continuing her legacy.”

McNaney, who founded the nonprofit in 2016 out of a desire to help others battling cancer, said, “The organization is in a great position to take its growth to the next level and provide greater impact to those in need. This is an incredible opportunity, and I look forward to working with Mansoor as he transitions into this exciting new role.”

Culinary Angels Board Chair Lynn Monica praised Sakhiy’s resume, which included experience in strategic planning, fundraising and marketing, primarily in the international nonprofit humanitarian sector. “We look forward to working with him as he leads the organization into the future,” Monica said.

The transition, which is also a bit bittersweet, Monica praised McNaney for her “vision, dedication and leadership of Culinary Angels, and for growing the organization since its founding. Lisa will be missed by all.”