Kristine Smyth SP '71 Named Director of Development at Catholic Eldercare Kristine Smyth, who is familiar to many alumnae because she once worked in the Alumnae Association, has been promoted from Catholic Eldercare's Director of Annual and Major Giving to the overall Director of Development, following Thomas Cierzan.
Catholic Eldercare is a 25-year-old nonprofit organization in Minneapolis that offers a continuum of housing and services for seniors of all faiths and economic means in an atmosphere of support, respect, dignity, and self determination. "It is an honor," said Smyth, "to be able to serve seniors and their families, encouraging others to join in supporting the care, programming, and affordable housing that enables them to live full, dignified lives. I am grateful to our community for believing in the Eldercare mission."
"Kris was the unanimous choice to succeed Tom Cierzan, who served us so well," said President and CEO Mary Broderick, a former interim St. Catherine president, Minneapolis campus dean, and nursing professor.
Smyth has a firm grasp of the large financial challenges facing Eldercare as the Baby Boomers, one of the nation's largest generation, enter their later years. It's a "looming crisis" that requires intense development. "We have the responsibility to do something now to insure these individuals will have what they so deserve. ... I want to assist in making this possible."
Smyth holds a master's degree in Philanthropy and Development from St. Mary's University of Minnesota. Previous to joining Catholic Eldercare in 2004, she was the Director of Development at Pope John Paul II Elementary. "Catholic Eldercare is fortunate to have Kris in her expanded capacity," stated Broderick.
The Katie Influence
After graduating in home economics, Kristine volunteered for the Alumnae Association first as a class representative and then as a board member, working on several special events projects. "In 1988, Ruth Brombach [Executive Director] called me and asked if I would be interested in filling the position of Reunion/Chapter Coordinator for six months. The position went from part-time for six months to full time for twelve years," Smyth explained.
"My time at the College both as a student and in the Alumnae Association certainly helped form the woman I am today. What wonderful women there were to mentor me, when they were not even aware of the gifts they were giving to me. I was taught that I had unbelievable innner strength and all I had to do was call on it, it was there!"
!"I was taught it was okay to have a deep faith in God, to be smart, and to be compassionate. . . all in one package."
What are Kristine Smyth's thoughts for other alumnae? "That they carry the fearless spirit of St. Catherine of Alexandria everyday." She also has a great loyalty to her alma mater. She reminds other alumnae that even though they may not come back to campus often, "the Alumnae Association is there to support them!" |