ENCINITAS — The board of directors of Coastal Roots Farm has appointed Kesha Dorsey as the nonprofit’s new chief executive officer.
Coastal Roots Farm is a nonprofit community farm and education center on Saxony Road near the Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA. The farm’s mission is rooted in Jewish culture and wisdom.
Dorsey has served as interim CEO since April and has been with Coastal Roots Farm for eight years, joining the organization as its marketing and philanthropy manager.
“This Farm has shaped me as much as I hope to help shape its future,” Dorsey said in a statement. “Our work sits at the meeting point of land, justice, Jewish wisdom, education, and community. I am honored by the trust the Board has placed in me and deeply committed to leading Coastal Roots Farm with clarity, care, and courage as we grow into this next chapter.”
Among the farm’s initiatives are educational programs focused on land stewardship and sustainability. Other faith-led programs address food insecurity.
Michael Berlin, chair of the board of directors, said Dorsey’s approach to “nourishing community” demonstrates she is well-positioned to lead the organization.
“This is an important moment for the Farm and the communities we serve,” Berlin added. “SNAP benefit cuts are deepening food insecurity, the funding landscape is shifting, and the Farm is entering its next decade with both external and internal evolutions ahead. This moment requires discipline, imagination, and thoughtful leadership. Dorsey brings all three.”
Before becoming CEO, Dorsey’s work in Jewish communal organizations and public health focused on issues including anti-hate initiatives, sexual health and gang prevention.
“No one is better suited to lead the Farm into its next chapter of growth than Kesha Dorsey,” Berlin said. “She understands who we are, what we stand for, and where we are going. She brings a rare combination of strategic expertise, genuine commitment to community and food justice, and deep grounding in Jewish values.”
