The longtime leader of the Food Bank of Western New York is stepping down after more than twenty years with the non-profit. Marylou Borowiak has announced plans to step down from the role of President and CEO later this year. The 57-year-old Borowiak said in a statement that she felt the timing made sense both personally and professionally.
“Hunger is a serious issue in our community and it’s important to me, the Board and our staff that we put those we serve first and ensure a smooth transition to the next leader," said Borowiak. "This move allows me to spend more time with my family and pursue other personal goals, but at the same time I am committed to staying actively engaged in the local community in assisting many other not-for-profits I’ve been honored to be associated with over the years through volunteerism and board membership.”
She first joined the Food Bank as a Board member in 1996 and was asked to take the role of Interim President and CEO in 2008, when Tom Heine fell ill. She assumed the role fulltime after Heine passed away in 2009.
“The Food Bank’s Executive Committee will enact our succession plan to ensure a seamless transition from Marylou’s solid leadership to our next President and CEO,” said Board Chair Mike Prendergast. “Marylou has made countless contributions to the organization and she will be sorely missed as our leader. We are committed to fostering the legacy her leadership has helped the organization build.”
The Food Bank distributes food to 341 member agencies including food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, youth programs and senior centers in Western New York. Through these agencies, it serves some 135,000 individuals in any given month.
