Robyn Burns

An experienced leader in community food systems and access, Robyn Burns has led The Salem Pantry as Executive Director since March 2020. With a career dedicated to strengthening local food networks and advancing food equity, Robyn brings deep experience in food access, education, and sustainable systems.

Before joining The Salem Pantry, she held leadership roles with CitySprouts and The Food Project, helping to connect communities through education and urban agriculture. Her commitment to collaboration and community extends beyond her organization as she currently serves as Board President of the Salem Chamber of Commerce and contributes her expertise to several local boards and committees, including Make Hunger History, the Salem Rotary, and the MGB/Salem Hospital Community Affairs Committee.

Robyn earned her B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.S. in Sustainable Systems from Slippery Rock University, focusing on urban food systems. She is also an Environmental Leadership Program (ELP) Fellow, holds an Executive Certificate from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice, and is a LEADS 5.0 Fellow.

Her leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including North Shore Distinguished Leader by the North Shore Chamber, Salem Chamber Champion, and the Paul Harris Hero Award from the Rotary.

Robyn lives in Salem, Massachusetts, with her wife, Rachel, and their son, Brixton.

“My position at The Salem Pantry allows me to engage in meaningful work and to build community through food. I am proud to be part of a fantastic TSP team and collaborate daily with community partners and supporters.”