About

Meghan McDermott

Founder & Principal, Sungold Community Solutions

Meghan McDermott is a nonprofit leader, systems thinker, and partnership builder with more than a decade of experience advancing equitable solutions across food, energy, and transportation systems. Her work sits at the intersection of public health, policy, philanthropy, and community development, with a consistent focus on building durable collaborations that lead to meaningful systems change.

Meghan’s career began in grassroots food systems work, including environmental advocacy in Chicago, education and outreach for a grass-fed and organic butcher shop, two years as a FoodCorps service member teaching K–12 students in underresourced schools, and an extensive career at the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, where she oversaw a $3.4 million annual budget, managed a multidisciplinary team of more than 20 staff, cultivated foundation and corporate partnerships, and led the design and implementation of high-impact regional and statewide initiatives. Across these roles, she developed a deep appreciation for the power of clear communication, shared leadership, and relationship-centered approaches to change—principles that continue to guide her work today.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College, where she double majored in Psychology and Food and Sustainability Studies and graduated with departmental honors for her thesis exploring the intersection of social justice activism and gourmet food culture within the international Slow Food movement. Meghan also holds a Facilitative Leadership certificate and Master Gardener certification through Michigan State University Extension and served as a U.S. delegate to the Slow Food International Congress.

A recognized community leader, Meghan was named a Traverse City Business News “40 Under 40” honoree for four consecutive years (2021–2024). She currently serves on the Advisory Board of Food Rescue Northern Michigan and has held board and advisory roles with multiple regional and national food systems organizations. Meghan lives in Traverse City, Michigan, where she enjoys gardening, hands-on projects, and exploring northern Michigan’s trails with her family.