Yarmouth Hospital Foundation (YHF) announces the retirement of its longtime managing director Paulette Sweeney-Goodwin and the appointment of her successor, Mary Surette.
Ms. Sweeney-Goodwin retires after more than 18 years as the Foundation’s first managing director and first permanent staff member.
“Since the first day of her appointment, Paulette has been forward thinking in advancing the betterment of the YHF and promoting its attributes and opportunities to the community” says Board Chair Dr. Harold Cook. “From day one, she has increasingly connected to scores of donors in a personal and advisory manner, not intrusively but rather repeatedly drawing attention to the value of supporting the YHF. The exponential growth and broad community engagement of the YHF over nearly two decades can be attributed significantly to Paulette’s initiatives and leadership.”
“It has been a source of pride, an honour, and a pleasure to work with the YHF Board and staff and our legion of donors sponsors and volunteers,” Ms. Sweeney-Goodwin says. “The lessons 2020 taught us are as relevant now as when I was hired in 2002 — we are stronger together, we are hardwired in a time of need to reach out and help others, and we respond with compassion and a generosity of heart that reaffirms our humanity.”
Ms. Surette has been part of the YHF management team since 2007 and Development Officer since 2012. In that role, she has been instrumental in the success of the Spring Gala, Jody Shelley’s Golf for Health tournament and the WE CARE Radiothon, which has had remarkable success since it was launched in 2017.
“I’m deeply appreciative of Paulette’s mentorship, the collaboration from YHF Board members and the tremendous support from our community over the past 14 years,” Ms Surette says.
“I am thrilled and honoured to assume the responsibilities of Managing Director and motivated by future opportunities as we continue our work to enhance the healthcare needs of the Tri-County area served by our regional hospital.”
“Mary’s expertise goes far beyond her fundraising skills,” Dr. Cook says. “She also has years of financial and budgeting experience and has demonstrated organizational skills, capacity to manage multiple tasks and methodical approaches to critical thinking and problem solving.”
Ms. Surette was chosen after a four-month search and selection process assisted by the Halifax-based search firm Gerald Walsh and Associates.
“In addition to her strong skills and demonstrated enthusiasm, Mary’s appointment brings a depth of knowledge of and commitment to the Foundation, as well as continuity in a period in which the Foundation is facing a major fundraising project,” Dr. Cook says, referring to plans in the works to expand the emergency department.
