Rita Hubbard-Robinson, JD

President and Chief Executive Officer

Rita Hubbard-Robinson, J.D., is an internationally recognized food access specialist, health equity strategist, and visionary community leader whose work has transformed food systems and advanced social justice for underserved populations.  With more than 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to addressing the social determinants of health, championing equitable access to nutritious food, and fostering sustainable, community-centered solutions.

As President and Chief Executive Officer of Project Rainfall, LLC, and founder of NeuWater & Associates, LLC, Hubbard-Robinson has built a legacy of innovative leadership grounded in collaboration, data-driven strategies, and authentic community engagement. Her expertise in food equity and urban revitalization has earned her widespread recognition as a pioneer in advancing equitable food systems both nationally and globally.

As a Founding Associate Director of the University at Buffalo’s Community Health Equity Research Institute and Co-founder of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, Inc., Hubbard-Robinson has played a pivotal role in developing infrastructure that supports long-term health and economic stability. Her signature initiatives include the Farmers Market at Erie County Medical Center, developed in collaboration with County and State leaders to provide healthy food and essential resources to thousands of individuals visiting, working, and residing near Western New York’s only Level 1 Trauma Center.

She led the City of Buffalo’s Healthy Corner Store Initiative, implementing it with residents and community-based organizations as the driving force behind its sustainability and success. Additionally, she supported the implementation of the Indoor Food Production Facility at Buffalo Go Green’s Zenner Street Urban Farm, expanding access to fresh, nutritious food in historically marginalized communities.

Her leadership extends beyond food access to advancing healthcare equity, youth workforce development, and civic engagement. She coordinated the Mobile Mammography Coach, which screened over 4,000 women and saved eight lives in its first few years, demonstrating her commitment to eliminating barriers to care. Honored with accolades including the 2023 Business First IDEA Award, Hubbard-Robinson remains a global thought leader dedicated to dismantling systemic inequities and building resilient, inclusive communities. Her work affirms a steadfast belief: access to healthy food is a fundamental human right.