Berks County native Nicholas Imbesi is the Senior Manager of Advocacy and Government Relations at Chester County Food Bank where he advocates for the Food Bank and for policies that impact those facing food insecurity in Chester County.

“Whether it be with our state delegation, federal delegation, or county government, I provide the information they need to make informed decisions about combatting food insecurity,” said Imbesi. “I also work closely with community partners, chambers of commerce, businesses, and nonprofits to educate, advocate, and assist in the crucial fight against food insecurity.”

Imbesi enjoys interacting with elected officials and engaging with them to help educate them about policies that impact people’s lives.

“Making a positive difference is what I wanted to do in my career, and at the Chester County Food Bank I am fulfilling that goal daily,” he said.

Imbesi graduated from Schuylkill Valley High School in 2010 and then attended Kutztown University, where he earned his degree in Public Administration in 2014. In 2018, he started the Masters of Public Administration program at Villanova University and graduated with his MPA in May 2020. Along with his degrees, he has a certificate in City Management from Villanova University that he obtained at the same time as his MPA.

Imbesi started working with his dad at 13 years old, serving as a busser for his family’s pizza shop, Ozzie’s Café. Besides his family, Imbesi credits Phil Wert with having a strong impact on his career.

“Phil was a social studies teacher in my high school, and later, I reconnected with Phil because he was a council member for the Borough of West Reading,” said Imbesi. “He encouraged me to run for Borough Council when I moved into the borough in 2016, and I eventually became the council president. This experience was vital in my career, and I am very thankful for his mentorship and guidance.”

A professional highlight Imbesi is particularly proud of is having the opportunity to invite and host Senator Bob Casey at the Chester County Food Bank in January 2023.

“I had the opportunity to invite and host Senator Bob Casey at the Chester County Food Bank,” said Imbesi. “During this time, we were able to speak face to face with the United States Senator about food insecurity and policies that help alleviate hunger in Chester County and the United States. We showed the Senator our operation and how we deliver for our neighbors in Chester County. It was definitely a highlight in my career!”

Imbesi’s favorite Chester County spot for Italian food il Granaio in Phoenixville.

Imbesi and the rest of the 2024 Class of VISTA Millennial Superstars will be honored at the Awards Reception & Celebration on Thursday, May 9 at Penn State Great Valley.

Sponsors are still being sought. Click here to learn more about the various opportunities available to partner with VISTA Today as it celebrates Chester County’s next generation of leaders, or contact Steve Knickerbocker at steve.knickerbocker@acj.today or 484-437-2826.