Worthington Education Foundation (WEF) announces the appointment of Emily Chalfant as Executive Director, effective July 20, 2026. In this role, Chalfant will lead the foundation as it advances its mission to support innovative resources and experiences to enrich the education of every student in Worthington Schools. 

Chalfant brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience in project management, community engagement, and stakeholder relations. Most recently, she served as Program Director for Buddy Box Connection, where she led the organization's weekend food program serving food insecure children throughout Franklin County. A longtime Worthington resident and parent of two students in the district, Chalfant has been an active volunteer and leader in the community for more than 15 years through the PTA, Worthington Schools, and numerous local organizations. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Emily to our leadership team," said Jenny Fuerst, president of the WEF Board of Directors. "Worthington is experiencing tremendous momentum, with exciting growth and investment happening throughout our community. The WEF is committed to matching that energy by helping our educators turn innovative ideas into meaningful opportunities for students. Emily is the ideal person to lead us into this next chapter. She is a passionate advocate for public education, deeply connected to our community, and brings the nonprofit leadership experience needed to help us expand our impact." 

Chalfant said she is excited to build on the foundation's recent progress. "I am honored to join the Worthington Education Foundation at such an exciting time," she said. "The board has laid an incredible foundation for growth, and I look forward to partnering with them to expand opportunities for our students, strengthen community support for our schools, and continue investing in innovative learning experiences. This role combines my love for public education with my long-standing commitment to the Worthington community." 

Chalfant's appointment comes during a period of significant growth for the foundation. During the past two years, the organization has completed an ambitious strategic plan that included a comprehensive rebrand, the launch of a new website, new office space at the Worthington Education Center on Wilson Bridge Road, the hiring of its first executive director, and the addition of new board members who offer a diverse range of expertise and representation from across the district.