VERONA — A new chief executive officer is at the helm of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.

Kari Jorgensen Diener started her job Monday, the food bank announced Thursday. She brings to the organization more than 25 years of experience within the realm of humanitarian aid, food security and community resilience.

Diener succeeds Michael McKee, who retired this summer after leading the food bank for 12 years.

The food bank serves 25 counties and eight cities in central and western Virginia, including Frederick and Clarke counties and the city Winchester.

Led by the board of directors, a nationwide search for a new CEO was conducted. According to a news release, the board’s goal was to find someone who could build on the food bank’s strong foundation while guiding the organization to its next

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