We are thrilled to announce that Maggie Hesketh will be the new Executive Director of our growing, 17 year-old organization.

Maggie has been the Program Director at FDSF for 2  years. She originally is from the United Kingdom where she was an 8th grade math teacher and prior to taking this role was a Curriculum Director at a Pre-K through 8th grade school. In addition she continues to be an active Board Member of the Junior League of Kalamazoo. She is passionate about educational equity and loves seeing students succeed.

“Passion, motivation, and courage are a few things that are necessary in order to make the world a better place. This skillset, coupled with Maggie’s experience and love for children makes her an excellent choice for Executive Director of First Day Shoe Fund. On behalf of the board, we are very excited to welcome Maggie into her new role as Executive Director. We look forward to continuing to carry out our mission with her skills and leadership.”  

“For the past 2 years, I have worked at First Day Shoe Fund as the Program Coordinator and I have seen the amazing work that FDSF does to support students in Kalamazoo County. I am honored and excited to become the Executive Director as we continue to grow our program and ensure that all Kalamazoo kids can start school on equal footing.”

In her free time, Maggie likes to travel with her two sons and husband, Ian, volunteer with other local organizations, and watch her sons play sports including archery, soccer, and ski racing. 

“Seeing children’s faces light up when they see their new shoes is an amazing feeling and I am thrilled to be a part of this organization.” says Maggie.

To learn more about First Day Shoe Fund and how to support the organization’s work, please visit www.firstdayshoefund.org, find us on Facebook or email firstdayshoefund@gmail.com.