The National Grocers Association has promoted Chelsea Matzen to VP of the NGA Foundation, as she continues to lead the nonprofit arm of the trade association.
“In her three-plus years at the NGA Foundation, Chelsea has embraced numerous challenges and opportunities, including taking over leadership of the foundation a year ago,” said Greg Ferrara, NGA president and CEO and NGA Foundation president.
“During her time, she has helped to grow the foundation’s scope and influence, including successfully launching the GusNIP Technical Assistance Center and, most recently, the SNAP EBT Modernization Technical Assistance Center (SEMTAC), both of which are instrumental in supporting the independent supermarket industry’s important role in feeding communities across the country.”
Additionally, Ferrara noted, the foundation has continued to grow other important programs, including the Women Grocers of America, Food Industry University Coalition student programs and the Executive Leadership Development Program, supported by PepsiCo.
“I look forward to working with Chelsea and the Board of Regents as the foundation continues to expand its reach and support of the industry,” Ferrara said.
Kirk Clark, director of merchandising at Albertville, Alabama-based Mitchell Grocery Corp. and chairman of the NGA Foundation Board of Regents, added, “Chelsea’s work and enthusiasm for the Foundation’s mission are driving interest in and growth of programs that are important to the future of independent grocers. On behalf of the Board of Regents, I look forward to her continued leadership and cooperation as we work together to further enhance Foundation programs.”
Moving forward, Matzen anticipates the foundation will continue to focus on diversity initiatives in the grocery industry, such as with the Women Grocers of America, which “continues to grow and expand opportunities for leadership development and networking for women in the industry,” she said.
“Additionally, expansion of the Foundation’s technical assistance capabilities will give grocery retailers the support they need to better serve their communities, particularly those most in need, such as those who are food insecure.”
