Kristen has served as President & Chief Executive Officer of Operation Food Search since 2019, overseeing the strategy, financial operations, programs and initiatives that support OFS’s mission and vision. She is responsible for ensuring OFS’s alignment with its three pillars: to meet the immediate need, build nutrition IQ and champion change that leads to long-term solutions to food insecurity.

Kristen collaborates with OFS staff, board members and other organizational and civic leaders to ensure that the needs of the community are met, forming new partnerships and expanding crucial programs. Under Kristen’s leadership, OFS acquired another non-profit, the St. Louis MetroMarket, in order to broaden the services and reach of both organizations.

A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Duke University, Kristen earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and psychology. Additionally, she holds a Certificate in Business Management for Non-Profit Leaders from Washington University in St. Louis. Kristen joined OFS after serving as executive director of the Ladue Education Foundation & Alumni Association. She has extensive experience in advocacy and education environments, including Autism Speaks, Sylvan Learning Centers, Metro Nashville Public Schools, Houston Independent School District and St. Louis Public Schools.

Kristen serves as an editorial advisory board member of Food Bank News, a national publication, and as a board member of the Kathy J. Weinman Shelter. She has been recognized as a Most Influential Business Woman by the St. Louis Business Journal, a YWCA Leader of Distinction, a Titan 100, a recipient of the Community Service Award from the Harvard Club of St. Louis, and a graduate of Leadership St. Louis.

From Kristen: “Given my roots in teaching kids whose basic needs were not being met, I was drawn to the opportunity to meet one of the most basic needs of all: food security. For without food security, children are unable to thrive in the classroom . . . or in life.”