Delite grew up in Steamboat Rock, Iowa, on her family’s corn, soybean, and dairy farm, learning early on the importance of food origin, food security, and the hard work and dedication needed to grow a passion from seed. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Wartburg College (Waverly, IA) she began her career in Development with United Way of Central Iowa where she gained a strong foundation in donor relations and fundraising. After stops at Habitat for Humanity in Minnesota and Heifer International in California, she landed in Moab, Utah, at a food-based nonprofit called the Youth Garden Project (YGP). As Associate Director and later Executive Director of YGP, Delite led the organization and staff team, while having a specific focus on fundraising efforts — increasing individual donors, corporate partnerships, and grant awards during her tenure. Her 10 years at the organization nurtured her interest in being connected to community food systems and increasing healthy food access. Most recently, Delite served as a Proposal Development Specialist with Utah State University, working directly with faculty as well as state and federal agencies to secure funding for Agriculture and Natural Resource programs. Delite and her partner relocated to Rhode Island in 2019 to be closer to family. She was thrilled to find an organization like Farm Fresh RI that is the perfect merger of her personal passions and professional experience. Away from work, Delite enjoys working in her own garden, riding her bike, hiking a trail, traveling, and any day that involves more hours outside than less. And of course, she enjoys relaxing at one of South County’s amazing beaches.
