Curtis Aikens believes that good leadership—like good cooking—starts with listening, caring, and serving others. His motto, “Spread Love,” defines how he’s lived his remarkable journey–from learning to read at 26 years old, to becoming a national voice for hope, health, and community.
the Chef: building community through food
Curtis understands that bringing people together around the table is where understanding begins. His culinary career has taught him that diversity is our strength—different ingredients create the best dishes, and different voices create the best solutions.
Curtis became one of the original Food Network chef-hosts, teaching millions of families that healthy eating can be simple, affordable, and fun. He’s cooked for four First Ladies and was selected by Michelle Obama for the Lunchtime Challenge Program. Curtis is excited to have the opportunity to work with Jennifer Siebel Newsom on her literacy and nutrition efforts throughout the state of California.
As Supervisor, Curtis will support local food programs and farmers markets, making food programs accessible for underserved neighborhoods. He will support local farmers and sustainable agriculture, and build bridges across cultural and economic divides to make healthy food accessible to every family.
the educator: investing in people and opportunity
Curtis’s most powerful story is personal: he learned to read at age 26 after years of hiding his illiteracy. That transformation fueled his commitment to education. He earned his Master of Education from Dominican University, authored six cookbooks including a children’s book about diversity (ABC Soup), and was recognized by CBS’s Dan Rather as an “American Hero.”
As Supervisor, Curtis will strengthen partnerships between the county and our schools. He will champion workforce development, connecting residents to high-wage jobs. He will support literacy programs and lifelong learning opportunities, and ensure no one gets left behind.
the entrepreneur:
building businesses
Curtis built multiple successful businesses across different industries, from Peaches Produce in the Bay Area to Aikens Family Produce serving schools and major film productions. He knows what it takes to meet payroll, manage tight budgets, and deliver results. He’ll bring that same fiscal discipline and accountability to managing Marin County’s $700+ million budget.
As Supervisor, Curtis will ensure fiscal discipline and accountability at the county so that every tax dollar is tracked and justified. He will support small businesses with practical policies that eliminate waste without cutting essential services. With Curtis as Supervisor, every taxpaying county resident will be treated with respect.
the advocate:
delivering results for district 5
Curtis has a track record of bringing people together, building consensus and getting things done. He has county-level governance experience and a proven ability to tackle complex challenges. He knows how to balance growth with protecting what makes our community special. He has also served District 5 as:
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Marin County Human Rights Commissioner
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Marin Community Television Board Member
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Multi-Cultural Advisory Commissioner for the City of Novato
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Food Policy Council Member
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Leading the coalition that established Marin’s first Sheriff’s Oversight Commission
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Developing comprehensive countywide food security plan ready for implementation
