Food Bank of Alaska is pleased to welcome Shara Cooley as our new Chief Financial Officer.
Shara joined the organization earlier this year and leads our financial strategy and operations. Her work will help strengthen our financial systems, support transparency and ensure our resources are aligned with the mission of expanding food access across Alaska.
More than a decade of nonprofit leadership
Shara brings more than 13 years of nonprofit finance experience to Food Bank of Alaska.
She most recently served as Senior Director of Finance at Covenant House Alaska, where she advanced through several financial leadership roles. Her experience includes budgeting, forecasting, grant compliance, audit oversight and reporting to nonprofit boards.
“Strong financial leadership is essential to every part of Food Bank of Alaska’s work, from statewide food distribution to long-term planning,” said Cara Durr, Chief Executive Officer of Food Bank of Alaska. “Shara brings the experience, clarity and care needed to help us steward our resources responsibly and support the growing needs of communities across Alaska.”
Supporting a mission that matters
Shara said she was drawn to Food Bank of Alaska because of the organization’s statewide reach and direct impact on Alaskans.
“I was drawn to Food Bank of Alaska because of its critical role in addressing food insecurity across the state and the direct impact it has on individuals and families,” Shara said. “I am excited for the opportunity to help ensure strong financial stewardship that supports and sustains this important work.”
Shara holds a Master of Accountancy and a Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics from Ohio University’s College of Business. She has also completed professional development through The Foraker Group’s Catalyst for Nonprofit Excellence program and the Coaching for Results program through SALT, LLC.
Committed to the Alaska community
Outside of Food Bank of Alaska, Shara serves as treasurer and a board member for Alzheimer’s Resource Alaska. She also volunteers with the Anchorage Downtown Rotary Foundation, Challenge Alaska and the Native Youth Olympic Games through Cook Inlet Tribal Council.
Shara moved to Alaska in 2012 and considers it her forever home. She enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, backyard campfires and caring for her household pets, which include a dog, two cats and a ball python.
We are excited to have Shara on the team and grateful for the experience, leadership and fresh perspective she brings to Food Bank of Alaska.
