News

Announcing New Executive Director - Padraig Gallagher

Feed My People Food Bank's Board of Directors announced today that Padraig Gallagher has been appointed as the organization's new executive director. He will succeed Suzanne Becker, who has served in the role since 2022.

Padraig will join Feed My People (FMP) in March after transitioning from his current position as executive director at Stepping Stones of Dunn County in Menomonie. Suzanne announced her upcoming retirement last November, having been on the staff of FMP since 2012.

"Suzanne has been a great leader in the fight against food insecurity in our region," said Padraig. "I am excited to build upon these efforts with the many community partners and resources in the 14 counties Feed My People serves."

Padraig grew up in Colorado and started his family there, before moving to West Central Wisconsin in 2013. Putting his efforts into his family and service to others, he served as a volunteer and staff member at FMP, before teaching ethics, logic and philosophy at UW-Eau Claire and UW-Stout. As the executive director of Stepping Stones of Dunn County, he led the organization through an expansion of its Food Pantry, Emergency Shelter, and Community Connections programs.

"Returning to Feed My People is a homecoming for me. I look forward to supporting their incredible team," said Padraig.

"I am honored and grateful to have been part of FMP's dedicated team," said Suzanne. "Padraig's vision and commitment to hunger relief make him a great fit to lead the critical work FMP does, together with our community, to support our neighbors facing food insecurity."

"We are thrilled to welcome Padraig Gallagher as the new Executive Director," said Joe Harrison, president of FMP's Board of Directors. "He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to addressing food insecurity into his role as our new executive director."

He will be the sixth executive director in Feed My People's 43-year history. To ensure a seamless transition, Suzanne is working closely with him until he officially transitions into the role early this spring.

"The Mission of Feed My People Food Bank is crucial to the well-being of communities in approximately one-fifth of the state of Wisconsin.  Food insecurity affects so much, from the decisions a family makes when bills come due, to educational attainment, to the vibrancy and capabilities of local businesses.  This is fundamentally important work, and I can't wait to get started," further commented Padraig.

He enjoys spending time with his now adult sons, Liam and AJ, and being active with his spouse, KT.  You can frequently find the couple walking, hiking, biking, or exploring area rivers in a kayak with their two dogs.