Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin: Welcomes new board members

Madison, WI, July 24, 2025 – Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin is thrilled to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors. Their diverse backgrounds and dedication to serving our community will help guide the Foodbank’s mission of ending hunger in southern Wisconsin

  • Kelliann Blazek (she/her) – Hailing from Mauston, WI, Kelliann brings a wealth of experience in food systems, nutrition, and agriculture. Her prior role with the White House Domestic Policy Council during the Biden-Harris Administration and as the first Director of Wisconsin’s Office of Rural Prosperity demonstrates her commitment to rural policy strategy. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School and a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, Kelliann also offers valuable lived experience. 
  • Valerie Chesnik (she/her) – Valerie, a Madison native, currently serves as the Director of Development with the UW College of Engineering at the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association. With nearly a decade of experience in the non-profit and development fields, she is also a founding member of NRSSH (Next Rising Stars of Second Harvest), a group that engaged young professionals in the organization’s mission. 
  • Jessica Dale (she/her) – Based in DeForest, WI, Jessica is a healthcare professional with over 20 years of experience. As a doctoral-level nurse with a strong background in leadership and administration, she brings not only her expertise but also personal insights into the challenges faced by those experiencing food insecurity. 

“Each of our new board members brings unique skills and perspectives that will enhance our ability to serve our community better,” said Michelle Orge, President and Executive Director of Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. “We are excited to have them support our vision of a community where everyone has enough nutritious food to thrive.”

The Board of Directors at Second Harvest Foodbank is committed to supporting the organization on our journey toward our strategic goals of nutrition security and food equity for everyone in the communities we support. With these new members, the organization is poised to continue expanding its impact across southern Wisconsin.

For more information about Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin and our initiatives, please visit SecondHarvestSW.org.