Vicki B. Escarra, President and CEO, To Depart Feeding America

CHICAGO, July 2, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Feeding America Board of Directors announced today that Vicki B. Escarra will be stepping down as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective this fall, to pursue other interests within the social sector. The Board of Directors, with Vicki's support, has initiated a process to identify a strong successor and ensure a smooth transition.    

Since Escarra' s appointment in 2006, Feeding America has experienced a sweeping transformation including expanding the number of hungry Americans served by nearly 50 percent annually—from 25 to 37 million people— and distribution of food and grocery products by 75 percent—from 2 billion to 3.5 billion pounds each year.  Escarra led the now $1.2 billion organization through a national rebranding effort to become Feeding America, paving the way for a more than 300 percent increase in fundraising from $28 million to $98 million, and rising from 15th to the 3rd largest nonprofit in America as ranked by Forbes.

"Vicki's impact on the Feeding America network has been phenomenal.  During the most challenging economic times in recent history and with more Americans struggling with hunger than ever before, Vicki led the network and her team to significantly step up food delivery, and do ever more to help meet the increasing need," said David Brearton, chair of the Feeding America Board of Directors.  "Vicki's incredible contributions to Feeding America came at a time when our work has never been so critical. The Board of Directors is profoundly grateful to Vicki for her more than six years of dedicated service. And, we look forward to Vicki's continued support as we search for a strong successor and in ensuring a smooth transition for the future of the organization."

"Working at Feeding America has been among the most enriching experiences of my life," said Escarra.  "The 37 million hungry men, women and children we serve have taught me a whole new meaning of hope and perseverance, and they have allowed me to see miracles can happen for people doing the right thing.  I feel deeply fortunate to have the opportunity to dedicate my time and energy to such a worthy organization, and I will forever be indebted to our food banks, donors, staff and board for allowing me to be a part of this tremendously noble work."

During Escarra' s tenure, Feeding America garnered unprecedented visibility and support from media, celebrities and elected officials and was coined "the go-to cause for marketers" by Advertising Age.  She was named to the The Non-Profit Times "Power and Influence Top 50" in 2010 and 2011.

Prior to joining Feeding America, Escarra lead a lengthy and distinguished career with Delta Airlines, ascending through several leadership positions, each with an increasing amount of responsibility.  She ultimately became the airline's Chief Marketing Officer, charged with generating all of the company's revenue.

About Feeding America

Feeding America provides low-income individuals and families with the fuel to survive and even thrive. As the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity, our network members supply food to more than 37 million Americans each year, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. Serving the entire United States, more than 200 member food banks support 61,000 agencies that address hunger in all of its forms. For more information on how you can fight hunger in your community and across the country, visit http://www.feedingamerica.org. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/FeedingAmerica or follow our news on Twitter at twitter.com/FeedingAmerica.

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SOURCE Feeding America