Jaynee Day

Jaynee Day is a prominent figure in the non-profit sector, known for her long-standing leadership at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, where she served as President and CEO from 1988 until her retirement in June 2019. Under her stewardship, the organization significantly expanded its operations, increasing food distribution from 3 million pounds in 1988 to over 31 million pounds annually by the time of her retirement.12

Early Career and Impact

Day's tenure at Second Harvest is marked by innovative initiatives aimed at addressing food insecurity. One of her notable achievements was the establishment of Project Preserve, a social enterprise that allowed Second Harvest to reduce its reliance on donations by purchasing food directly from manufacturers. This initiative not only generated substantial revenue but also improved food safety and efficiency in meal preparation for clients.2 By the end of her leadership, Project Preserve had become a model for other food banks, serving nearly 180 organizations across the country.2

Education and Community Engagement

Jaynee Day holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Park University and an Associate degree from Stephens College.3 Beyond her role at Second Harvest, she has been active in various community organizations, including serving as a director at The Global FoodBanking Network and participating in local Rotary clubs.4

Legacy

Day's impact on hunger relief efforts has been recognized widely; she is regarded as a pioneer in the field. Her leadership not only transformed Second Harvest into a vital resource for those facing food insecurity but also set a standard for operational excellence within the Feeding America network.12 Even after retirement, she remains committed to addressing hunger issues in her community, reflecting her lifelong dedication to social service.1