The GSF Foundation Appoints Vanessa Hugon Badal as Executive Director

The GSF Foundation (GSFF) is pleased to announce Vanessa Hugon Badal as its new Executive Director. A dedicated Golden State Foods (GSF) associate since 2019, Vanessa brings a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and community engagement to the role.

“I’ve watched the Foundation grow into an even more powerful force for good, and I’m excited to take on this role,” said Vanessa. “Our associates are the heart of this mission. Their compassion and commitment turn our vision into real change. Together, we’re not just supporting children and families in need; we’re building stronger communities in the areas where our associates live and work.”

Vanessa’s strategic focus on process improvement has significantly expanded GSFF’s impact. In 2024, she led the organization to achieve 100 percent committee participation in the Focus on Food program. As a result, GSFF donated the equivalent of 1.5 million meals to food-insecure children and families across the U.S. This marks the program’s largest contribution since its launch in 2020. Additionally, Vanessa led the 2024 Associate Campaign to its highest participation rate since 2012, reaching 80 percent company-wide involvement in giving. She also completed GSFF’s first comprehensive fundraising plan, setting a foundation for long-term sustainability. As Executive Director, Vanessa will lead all aspects of the Foundation’s operations, including day-to-day operations, grantmaking, committee support, partnership development, fundraising, and overall strategic growth. She will serve as its spokesperson, build innovative partnerships across GSF and in the broader community, and steward GSFF’s financial and regulatory responsibilities, while expanding its visibility and impact. Originally from Orange County, California, Vanessa graduated from California State University, Fullerton and started her career in corporate development with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. She joined GSFF as its Programs Development Specialist, earning promotions to Programs and Development Manager and later to Senior Director, Operations and Programs.

“We are incredibly proud to see Vanessa step into the role of Executive Director,” said John Page, GSFF Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We’ve seen firsthand how her strategic thinking, deep commitment to our mission, and collaborative leadership have transformed the Foundation’s reach and impact. We look forward to what she will accomplish next as she leads us into a new chapter of innovation and growth.”