Mary Ellen is an experienced nonprofit leader with a strong track record of growing revenue and strengthening community connections. She specializes in relationship-driven fundraising, including sponsorships, annual campaigns, signature events, and grassroots engagement initiatives.

Before joining The Pantry, Mary Ellen served as Director of Development at Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) in Virginia, a food pantry with a similar community-based model. She previously held development roles at Rainforest Trust and Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, and began her career in Special Events and External Affairs at Chase. Over the years, she has helped raise millions of dollars in support of causes ranging from hunger relief to youth development. Mary Ellen holds a BA in Communications from Fordham University.

Outside of work, Mary Ellen enjoys reading, tai chi, yoga, antiquing, gardening, and spending time with friends and family—especially her daughter.