Feeding Illinois Names Deirdre McMahon Boone as New Executive Director
Longtime hunger-relief and philanthropy leader to guide statewide network into its next chapter
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Feeding Illinois, the statewide association of food banks working to end hunger across Illinois, today announced Deirdre McMahon Boone as its new Executive Director, effective August 3, 2026. Boone succeeds Steve Ericson, who is stepping down after 8 years of leadership.
Deirdre McMahon Boone, Executive Director, Feeding Illinois
“We are excited to welcome Deirdre Boone as our next Executive Director. Hunger remains a critical challenge across Illinois, and Feeding Illinois' role has never been more important,” said Julie Yurko, Feeding Illinois Board President and President & CEO of the Northern Illinois Food Bank. “We are confident that Deirdre's leadership will build on our strong foundation and help advance our mission to ensure every Illinoisan has access to nutritious food.”
Boone brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, resource development, and hunger relief. She spent the formative years of her career at Feeding America and has since worked closely with organizations across the food banking network, including the West Suburban Community Pantry and, most recently, the Arizona Food Bank Network. As Founder and President of Good Cause Consulting, Boone has spent more than fifteen years as a senior strategist to national and local nonprofits, partnering with CEOs and development teams on fundraising strategy, grant writing, prospect research, and direct marketing across corporate, foundation, individual, and government funding streams.
A lifelong resident of the Chicago area, Boone brings deep roots in Illinois' nonprofit community and a strong understanding of the statewide landscape Feeding Illinois serves. She has emphasized her readiness to lead the organization's advocacy efforts — including development of an annual advocacy plan and cultivation of relationships with state and federal partners — as well as her commitment to growing the organization's resource base, including its Farm to Food Bank Program, to benefit member food banks across Illinois.
"I am honored to join Feeding Illinois at such a critical moment for our neighbors across the state," said Boone. "As SNAP participation in Illinois has declined by nearly 13% since 2025, the work of food banks and their agency partners is more vital than ever. I look forward to partnering with the Board, member food banks, and our state and federal partners to build on the strong foundation Steve and this organization have built, and to lead Feeding Illinois into its next chapter."
The organization also expressed gratitude for Ericson’s role. “Steve Ericson's leadership over the past eight years has left a lasting, positive impact on Feeding Illinois and the communities we serve. His dedication to addressing hunger and strengthening our statewide network has helped more Illinois families access the food they need, and we are deeply grateful for his service,” said Yurko. While Ericson is stepping down as Executive Director, he plans to stay engaged with Feeding Illinois while balancing time with family.
Feeding Illinois represents seven-member food banks across the state, providing food, advocacy, and resources to communities facing hunger.
About Feeding Illinois
Feeding Illinois is the Partner State Association of Feeding America food banks that serve Illinois. Together, they provide food and other services to every county in Illinois through a vast network of member agencies and specialized feeding programs.