Common Threads staffers come from varying backgrounds, but share a concern for children, a commitment to positive social change, and a love of good food and the communities food can create and sustain.
Linda Novick O'Keefe
Allison Liefer
Jillayne Samatas
Mary Ann Weprin
Jennifer Pinto
Courtney Treutelaar
Josh Katt
Linnzie Pandel
Eleanor Leichenko
Linda Novick O’Keefe Executive Director In May 2003, Linda Novick O’Keefe, along with chef Art Smith and artist Jesus Salgueiro, developed their vision for Common Threads: a non-profit organization committed to educating Chicago's youth about cultural diversity, the culinary arts, and the importance of nutrition. Linda began her career in pharmaceutical advertising; however, a desire to make a difference in the community led her to an internship with Illinois Senator Dick Durbin and later to a position with the community development savvy ShoreBank. Linda earned an M.S. in Public Service Administration from DePaul University where she was a Chaddick Institute Scholar. She and her husband, Nick and their two children, Zachary and Julia, live in downtown Chicago. She enjoys sheep’s milk cheeses and crackers and the bigger and better version of an Oreo, a Whoopie Pie.