What a wonderful time to join the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry! I’m Laura Glaza and I’m delighted to join the Pantry as the new Executive Director. The staff and volunteers amaze me every day with their creativity and flexibility as we continue to serve clients in the face of a pandemic. We’re on pace to distribute one million pounds of food this year! And our Capital Campaign Committee has championed unique events and fundraising initiatives to advance the plans to move to our new home. In fact, we are 2/3 of the way toward our $900,000 goal.
As a long-time marketer and fundraiser (ten years each at Quaker Oats and Allstate) and programs and operations contributor (most recently at Loaves & Fishes in Naperville), I’m honored to join this exciting team. My resume also includes stints in advertising at Macy’s and in public relations for the Chicago Bears. I was born in Chicago, graduated from the University of Illinois and have made Glen Ellyn my home and St. Petronille my parish since 1985.
My goal is to advance the many accomplishments of my predecessor, Susan Papierski, who paved the way to “make 
hunger history.” Over fifteen years, Susan led the growth of our staff to nine professionals, helped expand our service area from 6 to 11 communities, and spearheaded the efforts to dramatically increase the number of clients served and food distributed. She also led the development of many important community partnerships which are still “bearing fruit” today and launched important initiatives including a change to client choice shopping. She grew donations every year – an amazing accomplishment. All of the Pantry’s stakeholders have been the beneficiaries of Susan’s great work and I am honored to continue her legacy.
Looking forward to meeting you all!
Laura Glaza, Executive Director