PARKERSBURG - The Sisters of St. Joseph Charitable Fund board of directors is seeking for a new executive director with the announcement Friday that Sister Jane Harrington will retire.
Harrington announced she will retire as executive director of the fund, a sponsored ministry of the Congregation of St. Joseph, effective June 30.
"Essentially, for myself, I think the time has come to slow down a little bit," said Harrington. "I want to take time to visit my family that all lives out of state and friends and do things I would like to do.
"It's just that time of my life," she added.
Harrington has been with the fund for 15 years, and in that time the SSJ Charitable Fund has made more than 700 grants worth more than $11 million.
Those grants have been pivotal in bringing additional millions in state, federal and local support to the 11-county area the fund serves.
"We will miss Sister Jane tremendously," said board chairman Tom Whittier of Spencer. "The board has been touched by her passion to improve health, her understanding of those in poverty and her dedication to social justice.
"We will miss her moral leadership most of all," he added.
Under Harrington's watch, thousands of children and adults have had some aspect of their lives improved as through her leadership, the fund's philanthropic priorities have been health ministry, healthy lifestyles, oral health and health equity as ways to partner with local communities in promoting health and wellness.
Harrington has positioned the fund for maximum impact upon health in the Mid-Ohio Valley with her vision, forceful advocacy and real leadership have given the charitable fund increased recognition and influence throughout West Virginia and Southeast Ohio, Wittier said.
Whittier further stated in accord with the SSJCF's written succession policy, a search committee is being organized and will set up procedures to receive applications for a new executive director. Those interested should consult the SSJ Charitable Fund's website (www.ssjcharitablefund.org).
Harrington said part of the reason she chose now to retire is because the fund is at a good place with a "very active and confident" board of directors.
"It will continue with what it does, and I am certain they will find an outstanding person for the position," she said.
This is not a decision Harrington has made lightly.
"I've thought about it for a while," she said. "It has been a very satisfying job, and I'm proud to have been a part of the Sisters of St. Joseph Charitable Fund.
"It will be hard to let go and leave, but it is time," Harrington added.
