Celebrating 10 Years: A Fresh Start, a Shared Mission

• January 29, 2026
• Lonnie Valencia

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Kicks Off the Year with Staff Meeting, New Leadership, and Logo Reveal

Today, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank gathered for its first full staff meeting of the year. It was a powerful moment to celebrate 10 years of service and launch the next chapter of our mission to fight hunger.

Interim CEO Kris Yagel introduced his new senior leadership team and spoke directly to staff about the future ahead. He also unveiled the food bank’s new 10-year anniversary logo, marking a decade of impact and honoring the community that has made it all possible.

"This isn’t just a celebration of years," Yagel said. "It’s a celebration of people. Of hard work, compassion, and the commitment it takes to feed hope, every day."

We were proud to be joined by two very special guests:

• VJ Smith of Marathon Petroleum, one of our strongest and most dedicated supporters
• Kristi Marcum, a valued member of our Board of Directors

Their presence, along with the energy of every staff member in the room, made today’s gathering a meaningful kickoff to what promises to be a powerful year.

Senior Leadership Team

• Kris Yagel, Interim CEO
• Alba Lopez, Chief Financial Officer
• Candice MacBlain, Chief Development Officer
• Karmela Galicia, Director of Programs
• Ramon Navarro, Director of Operations
• Kenna Orioha, Director of Human Resources

As we reflect on a decade of service and look ahead to the future, our purpose remains clear: to lead the fight against hunger in our region with compassion, integrity, and unity.

This anniversary is more than a milestone. It’s a reminder that lasting change happens when a community comes together. Whether you give, volunteer, or simply spread the word, you are part of this story.

It takes a community to nourish a community. Together, we are feeding hope.