Obama personal chef, Chicago’s Sam Kass, leaving White House

WASHINGTON — Sam Kass, the Chicagoan who became the Obama family personal chef when they lived in Kenwood, and followed them to the White House, is resigning, the White House said on Monday. Kass rose to become the Executive Director of the First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. He also carved out a new role as the White House Senior Policy Advisor on Nutrition, while still acting as a personal chef to the First Family.

Kass, a University of Chicago lab school grad who this year married New York based MSNBC host Alex Wagner, will depart the White House at the end of the month to live in New York.

From the White House: His departure concludes a tenure of dedicated service not only to the

First Family, but also to the Obama Administration as a key player in the

development of nutrition policy.

“From constructing our Kitchen Garden to brewing our own Honey Brown Ale, Sam

has left an indelible mark on the White House,” said President Obama. “And with

the work he has done to inspire families and children across this country to

lead healthier lives, Sam has made a real difference for our next generation.

Over the years, Sam has grown from a close friend to a critical member of my

team, and I am grateful for his outstanding work and look forward to seeing all

that he will continue to achieve in the years ahead.”

“Sam has been an integral part of Let’s Move! from its very beginning — from

discussions about children’s health around my kitchen table in Chicago, to

setting the strategic vision of a national campaign in the White House, to

spearheading efforts with the private sector across the country,” said First

Lady Michelle Obama. “Sam leaves an extraordinary legacy of progress, including

healthier food options in grocery store aisles, more nutritious school lunches,

and new efforts that have improved how healthy food is marketed to our kids. I

wish Sam success in all his future endeavors, and I know he will continue to be

a leader in the vitally important work to build a healthier country.”

Kass will remain engaged with the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative and the

continuing effort to advance childhood nutrition. His successor will be named

in the new year.”