Food Pantry Director Steps Down

Kathy Russell, director of the for the past five years, has resigned her post to pursue another job, Oak Leaves reports. 

“An incredible opportunity emerged for me with National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and after much consideration, I have accepted a position in nursing regulation,” she told Oak Leaves. “It will give me an opportunity to combine my nursing and attorney backgrounds."

Michele Zurakowski, the pantry's director of operations, takes over as acting executive director. Zurakowski had managed in-house affairs and developed a variety of programs, such as bringing in a nutritionist, providing cooking classes, and implementing a client choice food program where guests get to pick what they want to take home.

"Michele and I are partners in this organization," "We manage it together but we have very distinct roles."

According to the pantry's website, the group "provided nutritious groceries, produce, meat and dairy products to 13,916 local families comprised of 48,567 individuals. This represents a 26% increase from 2009 visits to the Pantry."