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Welcome to Backpack Brigade's New Board Members

We are thrilled to welcome three new members to the Backpack Brigade Board of Directors this spring.  All these talented and generous ladies are lending their time and energy to lead the fight to END weekend hunger, and we couldn’t be more excited to have them join us.  Get to know them here and say hello when you see them at events or in the warehouse.  They can’t wait to meet you!


Colleen Donovan, Founder, Donovan Economics
Colleen Donovan, Founder, Donovan Economics

What made you want to join the Backpack Brigade Board?

Two things instantly grabbed my attention the first time I met [Executive Director] Nichelle Hilton: the incredible need facing kids around Washington who go hungry over the weekend, and the passion for serving those kids shared by the Backpack Brigade team. I immediately started thinking of all the ways I could possibly use my skills to help.


What unique skills to do you bring to our organization?

I’m an economist and am always looking for new data and insights to help companies solve their problems. I’m looking forward to bringing analytical frameworks and data-driven techniques to help Backpack Brigade fulfil its mission.


Dogs or cats?

I have a cat, Freya, who enjoys attending Zoom meetings and hunting felt mice. I also have a small flock of chickens who never fail to entertain.


Freya
Freya

Favorite Seattle snack?

A good margarita with some chips and salsa. If it’s outside on a patio in the sun, even better.


Favorite hike?

Probably Mount Ranier Tolmie Peak lookout with a plunge at Eunice Lake afterwards.


Do you have fun summer plans?

Lots of golf and enjoying Washington’s breathtaking natural beauty.

 


Sarah Ninivaggi, Vice President, Quinn Thomas
Sarah Ninivaggi, Vice President, Quinn Thomas

What made you want to join the Backpack Brigade Board?

The passion and dedication of the staff, board and volunteers is clear from everyone you meet. I was immediately excited for the opportunity to support Backpack Brigade’s ambitious goals to grow and serve even more members of the community.

 

What unique skills to do you bring to our organization?

I’ve spent my career in marketing and communications. My favorite projects are ones where we get to break down complex issues or amplify community voices who are making an impact.

 

Dogs or cats?

Harper said I should choose cats.


Harper 
Harper 

Mariners, Seahawks, or Kraken?

I would have to say the Mariners, I enjoy catching a game in the summer and appreciating the views from the stadium.

 

Favorite Seattle snack?

Grabbing a cup of coffee and a pastry from one of my favorite coffee shops in Ballard.

 

Favorite hike?

Anything with an alpine lake. Snow Lake or Lake Serene are top of my list.

 

What are your plans for summer?

Visiting family and friends on the east coast, paddleboarding and enjoying lots of family time outside.

 


Lauren Schiltz
Lauren Schiltz

What made you want to join the Backpack Brigade Board? 

I first started volunteering with Backpack Brigade a few years ago, and from the moment I got involved, I felt a strong connection to their mission. The work they’re doing to directly support children in our community is incredibly impactful, and seeing the need firsthand inspired me to get more involved. I wanted to contribute in a deeper way, and joining the Board felt like the perfect opportunity to help make an even bigger difference.


What unique skills to do you bring to our organization? 

I have experience in project and nonprofit management.


Dogs or cats? 

I LOVE dogs. 


Mariners, Seahawks, or Kraken? 

I don’t follow sports very closely, but I will happily go to any game for the snacks.


Favorite Seattle snack? 

I am obsessed with all the dips from Mamnoon. I buy at least one every time I go grocery shopping.


Favorite hike? 

It’s hard to pick just one, but the first that comes to mind is Twin Lakes near Lake Wenatchee. It is a great hike to do with my three kids. We went in the fall when the leaves were changing. It was so beautiful—definitely one we will repeat this summer.


Do you have fun summer plans? 

This summer we will be taking a two week trip to Europe. We plan to spend one week at the beach and one week in the mountains hiking and exploring.

 

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