PCF Announces Leadership Transition and Welcomes New Interim Co-Directors to Lead Organization Forward
Partridge Creek Farm (PCF) announces that Executive Director Sara Johnson will be stepping down after over a year of impactful leadership. In her place, PCF will appoint Finance Director Kate Argall and Director of Programs and Partnerships Mary Antonia Andronis as Interim Co-Executive Directors.
Kate and Mary bring deep roots in the Upper Peninsula, strong nonprofit leadership experience, and a shared commitment to local food systems. As Co-Directors, Kate will lead financial strategy and organizational planning, while Mary oversees community programs and partnerships. Together, they will guide PCF through this transition with a unified vision and steady leadership.
Partridge Creek Farm remains deeply committed to our mission of increasing access to healthy food, supporting education, and cultivating resilient local food systems in Ishpeming. We will continue our work without interruption, building on the strong foundation laid over the past year. We invite community members to stay connected, get involved, and continue supporting PCF’s work as we head into another exciting season.
Introducing Our Co-Interim Executive Directors
To ensure a smooth leadership transition, PCF has appointed Kate Argall, PCF Finance Director, and Mary Antonia Andronis, PCF Director of Programs and Partnerships as Interim Co-Executive Directors. As co-leaders, Kate will guide financial strategy and operations, while Mary will lead program development and community engagement—ensuring PCF continues to grow with clarity, purpose, and impact.
The search for PCF’s next Executive Director will begin in late summer or early fall of 2025, following the growing season. The position will be posted publicly and led by PCF’s board of directors in collaboration with leadership staff. The ideal candidate will bring deep knowledge of the Upper Peninsula’s food systems, be a skilled fundraiser with a strong network, and have the vision to lead a talented and committed team.
PCF’s 2024 Accomplishments Led By Sara Johnson
Sara’s time at PCF was a season of growth, impact, and momentum. Under her leadership, we launched the Community Farm, opened the West End Farmstand, and increased direct-to-consumer sales by 600%. More than 60% of 2024 sales were tied to food assistance programs, expanding our reach in the Ishpeming community.
She also spearheaded a successful Giving Tuesday campaign that raised nearly $11,000—80% from first-time donors—to support the revitalization of the Community Garden. Internally, Sara strengthened our foundation with key hires, new systems, and a refreshed digital presence, setting PCF up for long-term success.
