LIFE Food Pantry has a new Executive Director

By Chuck Gibson

LOVELAND, OH (January 16, 2026) – Carol Rountree is already making a good impression as she continues settling in as the new Executive Director at the Loveland InterFaith (LIFE) Food Pantry.  

Carol Rountree’s first official day on the job was December 15, 2025 which also happens to be her birthday. Now in her fifth week as Executive Director for the LIFE Food Pantry, she shares her story here on Loveland Beacon Talks – A Podcast.   

Already she’s making a strong impression on the people at the Food Pantry and around the community. Terri Riley-Carter, former President and board member of  LIFE Food Pantry, served as Interim Director during the search for the new Executive Director said “Carol was built for this job, you’re gonna love her.”

Another Loveland resident was equally excited after meeting Carol commenting: “With her extensive background, you’re gonna be very impressed.”  

Eric Neuville, LIFE Food Pantry board member, played an integral part in the search for a new executive director which resulted in the hiring of Carol Rountree to fill that role. He explained how four board members went through “an extensive interviewing process” posting for the position, receiving about 50 applicants, narrowing the list and interviewing about 10 applicants to arrive at two finalists.  

“There were two finalists,” said Neuville. “Carol was the finalist. She was probably sick and tired of talking to us. She didn’t say that. It was a very normal interview process.”

Neuville says her background stood out making her an easy choice in the end.

“Due to her extensive background in not-for-profit and food pantries in this area, it was a no-brainer,” Neuville said. “She stood way out. It was a unanimous vote.”

It’s still early, but the early reviews are far and away very positive about her leadership in the role as executive director for the Food Pantry. Neuville offered some observations of how she is showing her leadership ability so far.

“It’s very interesting; she leads with her ears and not her mouth,” he said. “She asks a lot of questions. She’s done some extensive talking with peers – what are they like, what can be improved. She’s a great listener as all leaders are. Great leaders are good listeners.”

Neuville noted she hasn’t jumped in with immediate changes. Carol Rountree is taking time to look, listen and learn as she is forming opinions for the future. She’s asking questions as is normal for the first 30-60 days for anyone in a position of leadership. So far people the response seems to be very positive.

“It’s very positive – because of her approach,” Neuville said. “Her background number one and her approach number two. She’s a great person, a great personality, very welcoming. She’s a perfect fit for us.”

Early returns are all very positive. Now, give a listen to Carol Rountree on this Loveland Beacon Talks Podcast special: “Getting to know Carol Rountree: your new LIFE Food Pantry Executive Director”

CLICK ON the video link below to hear Carol Rountree share her story on Loveland Beacon Talks – A Podcast 

NOTE: Run time is approximately 27:00 minutes

This Loveland Beacon Talks Podcast is a production of Loveland Beacon Digital Media presented by Gibson Communications, LLC

Thank you for reading and listening here on Loveland Beacon.

Learn more about LIFE Food Pantry at: https://lifefoodpantry.org/

Follow LIFE Food Pantry News and Info on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/LIFEFoodPantry