Washington Chef Jose Andres is joining historians and executives on the board of the Foundation for the National Archives.

The foundation supports the National Archives' educational programs with private funding. The addition of a restaurateur is unusual for a panel that otherwise includes leaders from business, the law and other fields. But Andres helped the Archives develop the exhibit "What's Cooking, Uncle Sam?" that explored the government's effect on the American diet.

Andres' company Think Food Group includes Jaleo, Zaytinya and other restaurants. His three-year term with the Archives foundation begins Jan. 1.

Archivist David Ferriero says Andres developed a passion for primary sources at the Archives while working on the exhibit.

Other board members include journalist Cokie Roberts, filmmaker Ken Burns and historian Michael Beschloss.