ERIE — Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania announced the appointment of Breanna Watts as the organization’s new vice president of advancement, a newly established leadership role designed to support and expand Second Harvest’s mission to alleviate hunger across the region.

Watts has more than 15 years of experience in the local nonprofit community, with expertise in both fundraising and programming. She has spent the last four years as development director for Second Harvest Food Bank. Under her leadership, the organization saw an increase in donor engagement and consistent growth in both grant contributions and donations.

“With Breanna’s experience and vision, we are confident that her leadership will further strengthen our organization,” said Gregory D. Hall, chief executive officer of Second Harvest Food Bank. “Advancing our mission requires more than raising dollars – it takes thoughtful planning, strong partnerships and a shared commitment to alleviating hunger in our community, all of which Breanna brings to this role.”

In this role, Watts will oversee the newly formed Department of Organizational Advancement, which focuses on building capacity for neighbors through fundraising, communication and strong stakeholder relationships. The department will encompass network relations, programming, fundraising, marketing and communications to align these key functions under one strategic umbrella.

“I am honored to step into this new role and continue to help further our mission at Second Harvest,” said Watts. “We have an opportunity to deepen our impact, build new relationships while strengthening others, and reach more people with the support and resources they deserve.”

This appointment underscores Second Harvest’s dedication to fostering strong, mission-driven leadership from within, representatives said in a press release. “With Breanna Watts taking on the role of vice president of advancement, Second Harvest is well positioned to strengthen its efforts to address food insecurity in northwest Pennsylvania. The Second Harvest team is excited for the future and confident that Watts’s leadership will further advance its vision of a hunger-free community.