Not goodbye, but see you later - a message from Executive Director Richard

From the Food Connects website: March 3, 2025

It is hard to write these words, but the time has come for me to transition out of my role with Food Connects, effective May 1, 2025.

Making a decision to step away from this organization that I love has been challenging, yet it is the right time for the well-being of my family. I am so grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had at Food Connects to support our vision of healthy families, thriving farms, and connected communities. Together with our dedicated team, countless partners, and community members, we have made great strides to address the critical importance of local farms and food and promote equitable access to healthy foods throughout New England. 

I’d like to thank the Board of Directors for their shared vision, guidance, and support that has enabled Food Connects to develop strategies for strengthening the regional agricultural economy, supporting farm viability, and allowing us to provide educational and consulting services aimed at transforming local food systems. 

I also want to express my deep appreciation to the Leadership Team, and all Food Connects employees for their everyday contributions and commitment to our organization’s mission and to those we serve. Over the past several years, the Leadership Team has allowed me to focus more on big ideas, and strategic planning with confidence, knowing that the day-to-day operations of the Food Hub and the Farm to School program is in their capable hands.

I will be working closely with the Board of Directors, and President Stephanie Bonin to ensure Food Connects’ experienced leadership team is well-prepared to navigate the opportunities and challenges of this transition, while prioritizing the continuity of operations. I remain fully committed to supporting the successful recruitment and onboarding of an interim director until which time a permanent replacement can be hired.

I am going to miss the work and the impact, but mostly miss the relationships that I continue to develop throughout the entire food system ecosystem. I don’t anticipate encountering the same level of talent, passion and interconnectedness in my future. It’s really a special group of people working together at a significant cross-sector issue with the potential for major positive changes to our economies, society and environment.  It’s hard to leave that behind, and also reassuring that the work will continue! 

Over the next couple months, I will be sharing more reflections on my time at Food Connects. Stay tuned!