Melissa Sobolik, CEO of the Great Plains Food Bank, has announced that she will be stepping down to become the next CEO of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank in Providence, Rhode Island. Her final day with the organization will be July 11, 2025. To ensure a smooth transition, Chief Operating Officer Kate Molbert will serve as Interim CEO. Meanwhile, the board of directors has already begun the search for the Great Plains Food Bank’s next leader.
“Melissa has made an extraordinary impact on the Great Plains Food Bank and the communities we serve,” said Jasper Schneider, chair of the organization’s Board of Directors. “Her vision, leadership, and values have put us in a strong position to ensure future success. The Board is confident in the strength of our team, network, and our continued momentum as we begin this next chapter,” Schneider said.
Sobolik dedicated 18 years, including four years as CEO, to the Great Plains Food Bank. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, increased access to nutritious food, and innovated new programs and partnerships.
Known for her passion, advocacy, and tireless commitment to the mission of ending hunger, Sobolik has helped shape the organization into a nationally respected leader in hunger relief.
“Serving as the CEO and working at the Great Plains Food Bank for the past 18 years has been the honor of my life. I am immensely proud of the work we have done together to end hunger and nourish hope across North Dakota and beyond. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the organization and community have given me. It’s certainly bittersweet and will be hard to leave, but I’m confident the Great Plains Food Bank will have continued success,” Sobolik shared.