Foodbanker since 2012
“There are times when all of us will need help, and there are times when we can be the helpers. Having received help from the Foodbank and having the honor of working to offer help now, I know that hunger relief is about far more than providing food. It is about seeing someone in a moment of struggle and turning toward them with love and support rather than turning away with judgment or reservation. It is a reflection of what I believe community can and should look like.”
In 2012, Katie joined the Foodbank as a temporary employee, assisting with data and research projects. During her first year, she visited nearly 200 food distribution sites, interviewing neighbors and partners to better understand their needs and how the Foodbank can better support them. This early foodbanking foundation, combined with her personal experience with food insecurity, continues to shape her approach to the work.
Katie has held a variety of progressive roles at the Foodbank, with more than 10 years of experience focused on government compliance, community partnerships and strategic initiatives. She was instrumental in expanding the Foodbank’s direct service work, including the launch of the mobile pop-up pantry, home delivery service and two on-site food pantries. These innovative approaches have strengthened the Foodbank’s ability to serve neighbors, test new models in charitable food delivery and build partnerships that address barriers to food access.
Katie now serves as Executive Vice President, providing leadership across all areas of the Foodbank, including external relations, development, human resources, operations, strategic projects and food acquisition and logistics. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, innovation and a commitment to ensuring the Foodbank remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. She is also a strong advocate for centering the perspectives of people receiving food assistance, an approach that has garnered national attention and strengthened the Foodbank’s commitment to neighbor feedback and engagement.
Before joining the Foodbank, Katie built a career spanning nonprofit work and government affairs, with experience at organizations including Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio, the Ohio Senate and the office of former Congressman Dennis Kucinich. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy from Baldwin Wallace University.
Committed to leadership, she serves on various boards and committees, including the Better Business Bureau of Greater Akron, Highland Square Neighborhood Association and Akron Parks Collaborative. She is a Torchbearers alum, a graduate of the Child and Family Leadership Exchange and a member of Leadership Akron, Class 37. Katie is also a recipient of the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce’s 30 for the Future Award.
Katie resides in Akron’s Highland Square neighborhood with her husband, Kurt. They enjoy spending time outdoors, bicycling on the Towpath Trail, traveling and engaging with the region’s arts and culture activities.