NEWS RELEASE
STEVENSON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
*************************
Following an extensive search process, the board of directors of Stevenson Memorial Hospital Foundation (SMHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Thomas as the foundation’s chief executive officer.
As foundation CEO, Thomas will work hand-in-glove with volunteers and SMHF/SMH leadership raising funds to enable the hospital to continue to deliver excellent health care within our community.
The pandemic has highlighted the need for an updated, modernized hospital in south Simcoe to ensure our communities can receive excellent health care. Mary Thomas has the skills and experience to work with and support the many dedicated staff and community volunteers who are fundraising for our community hospital ensuring we can all benefit from health care close to home.
Thomas brings nearly 20 years of experience in fundraising, donor and community engagement, and non-profit leadership. For the past six years, Thomas served as director, resource development for United Way Simcoe Muskoka, where she supported fundraising efforts by staff and volunteers in many communities within our catchment area.
Earlier in her career, Thomas worked major, corporate, and annual giving roles with Mount Sinai Hospital Foundation, SickKids Foundation, and the ROM, as well as with the YMCA of Greater Toronto and The Salvation Army. She also worked with KCI Ketchum Canada as a campaign consultant with Grey Bruce Health Services and Georgian College.
Prior to working in philanthropy, Thomas was in marketing and sales with Hewlett-Packard.
"In my past work I have learned that people care deeply about their local health care. The community support of Stevenson Memorial Hospital clearly demonstrates the people here really care about one another, and they come together to support one another,” said Thomas. “This past year has taught us that nothing is more important than health, and having access to great health care close to home. I am very excited about helping the Stevenson Memorial Hospital redevelopment become reality, and to be a part of the committed and caring communities surrounding Stevenson.”
“This is a critical time for Stevenson and the foundation as we work toward revitalizing our hospital, reaching our next stage in the redevelopment process with the Ministry of Health and the goal of our current capital campaign in support of the project,” said Jody Levac, president and CEO at SMH. “On behalf of Stevenson, we are thrilled to welcome Mary and know that she will use her expertise and experience to engage the local community in support of our hospital.”
In October 2019, the SMH Foundation embarked on a $43-million capital campaign. Because of you, we can in support of the hospital’s redevelopment project, as well as critical equipment and technology upgrades. Thanks to the continued support of our wonderful donors our goal will become a reality!
Mary will join the foundation team on July 12, 2021 and until that time Melody McLean, the foundation’s director of development and campaign manager, will continue in her role as interim executive director.
“We are deeply grateful for Melody’s exceptional commitment and guidance serving the foundation during this time of leadership transition,” stated Margaret Barber, chair of the foundation.
We are delighted to welcome Mary to the Stevenson family, and look forward to introducing her to our community.
*************************
