Mary Ellen is a dynamic, impact-focused nonprofit professional with a proven history of growing revenue and deepening community impact. She specializes in building strong external relationships and energizing fundraising strategies—from sponsorships to annual campaigns, extraordinary events, and community engagement initiatives.

Mary Ellen brings creativity, heart, and hustle to every role, with a passion for mission-driven work and a talent for checklists! Known for her ability to engage stakeholders at the grassroots level, over the years she has raised millions in support for causes ranging from hunger relief to youth development and thrives on crafting campaigns and events that inspire action.

Mary Ellen comes to the Pantry from her former position as Director of Development at Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM) in VA, a food pantry with a similar model. Before WFCM, Mary Ellen held development positions at Rainforest Trust and Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, and began her career in Special Events & External Affairs at Chase. She holds a BA in Communications from Fordham University.

While not making checklists, Mary Ellen enjoys reading, tai chi, yoga, antiquing, gardening, and spending quality time with her friends and family, especially her daughter.