Lowell-based Northwest Arkansas Food Bank[1] announced Monday (Oct. 13) that Taylor Speegle will be its next president and CEO. The appointment is effective Jan. 1.
Speegle, who is vice president and chief strategy officer, will succeed Kent Eikenberry, who will transition to a consultant role before retiring later in 2026. In August, Eikenberry said he would retire in the second quarter of 2026.
“Taylor’s passion and commitment to what we do made him the natural choice to continue our culture and take our service to our neighbors in need to the next level,” Eikenberry said. “His leadership has already strengthened our partnerships, sharpened our focus, and inspired the next generation of Northwest Arkansas Food Bank leaders. I’m confident the mission will be in good hands for many, many years to come.”
Speegle joined the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank in 2025 to guide its long-term strategic vision, advance community partnerships, and deepen philanthropic investment in the region.
“I am truly honored and deeply humbled to step into this role and continue the incredible culture of service and compassion that defines the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank,” Speegle said. “Our work has never been more important, and I’m inspired every day by the team, our partners, and the volunteers who make it possible for our neighbors to have access to the nutritious food they deserve.”
Since joining the food bank nearly a decade ago, Eikenberry has led the 501(c)(3) nonprofit through growth, expanded community partnerships, and a commitment to address hunger in the region. He helped lead the organization through the opening of the 84,000-square-foot Claude and Betty Harris Center for Hunger Relief in 2024. The food bank completed a $26 million capital campaign to build the new center in Lowell. Also during his tenure, the food bank expanded programs and distribution capacity.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to congratulate Taylor and express our gratitude to Kent for his years of exceptional leadership,” said Jason Howard, chair of the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank Board. “Kent has built a strong and compassionate organization, and Taylor’s vision, strategic thinking, and heart for service will guide the Food Bank into a future of even greater impact.”
In 2024 the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank distributed more than 14.9 million pounds of food and provided more than 12.4 million meals. The food was provided to those in need through the help of more than 110 agency partners.
Related
References
- ^ Northwest Arkansas Food Bank (www.nwafoodbank.org)