New Hampshire Food Bank Named New Development Director

Shamera Simpson succeeded retiring veteran Nancy Mellitt to oversee fundraising for the New Hampshire Food Bank.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in People

Screen-print poster illustration showing a wooden crate of fresh produce on a rustic table, evoking community food security efforts. — The New Hampshire Food Bank has appointed Shamera Simpson as its new Director of Development to lead fundraising and community outreach initiatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The New Hampshire Food Bank appointed Shamera Simpson as its new Director of Development on August 6, 2026. She stepped into the role following the retirement of Nancy Mellitt, who concluded her 15-year career at the organization at the end of August.

Why it matters

Simpson is tasked with leading fundraising efforts and community campaigns as the food bank executes its long-term strategic plan. Her leadership aims to sustain the relationships with donors and corporate partners that remain essential to the organization's mission.

Shamera Simpson brings 19 years of nonprofit experience to a role previously held for 15 years by Nancy Mellitt. During her tenure, Mellitt secured more than $80 million in funding for the organization.

The players

Shamera Simpson

She is the newly appointed Director of Development at the New Hampshire Food Bank who previously led suicide prevention efforts.

Nancy Mellitt

She is the former Director of Development at the New Hampshire Food Bank who raised $80 million during her 15-year tenure.

New Hampshire Food Bank

This is a state-wide organization that provides food to those in need and is currently executing a multi-year strategic plan.

The details

Simpson leads development strategies by strengthening ties with corporations, foundations, volunteers, and community partners while managing events. She previously served as the Executive Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in New Hampshire and Maine.

August 6, 2026: Shamera Simpson began her role as Director of Development.
End of August 2026: Nancy Mellitt retired from the organization.
2026-2029: The New Hampshire Food Bank is implementing its Elevating Our Network strategic plan.

Market Landscape

The transition in leadership positions the New Hampshire Food Bank to maintain its competitive fundraising standing within the regional nonprofit sector. This change follows the launch of the Elevating Our Network 2026-2029 Strategic Plan, which provides the framework for the organization's development priorities.

The change in leadership ensures continuity in the food bank's ability to manage community campaigns and local partnerships. Donors and volunteers can expect stable operations as the organization moves forward with its 2026-2029 strategic initiatives.

The takeaway

Nonprofit organizations often rely on long-tenured development directors to anchor relationships with major donors and community pillars. The successful transition of this role is critical for ensuring that strategic plans, such as those targeting multi-year growth, remain fully funded.