Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester has appointed Deacon John R. McDermott Jr. the new executive director of Providence Housing Development Corp., effective July 1. He will take over for Monica McCullough, who has led Providence Housing since December 2005.
Deacon McDermott brings more than 20 years of executive leadership and management experience with Eastman Kodak Co., Label World and most recently with WS Packaging Group, where he was general manager. Since his ordination a permanent deacon in May 2004 he has found ways to blend his faith and his leadership skills. Jack Balinsky, director of diocesan Catholic Charities, said he first became aware of those leadership skills in 2005, when Deacon McDermott created a formal partnership between the Diocese of Rochester and the Archdiocese of New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
"I’m certain he will apply his considerable talents and skills to help continue the strong momentum of Providence Housing Development Corp. as it seeks new and innovative ways of providing affordable housing for the poor and disabled of the diocese," Balinsky said.
Deacon McDermott also participated in Catholic Relief Services’ Global Fellows program in 2009, when he toured the Holy Land and then spread the word about CRS’ humanitarian programs in that part of the world.
In his new position at Providence Housing, which is operated by diocesan Catholic Charities, Deacon McDermott will further the corporation’s mission of strengthening families and communities by creating and providing access to quality affordable housing enriched by the availability of supportive services.
"My career has been a progression of increasingly responsible roles, all in the private sector. I am pleased to be able to now redirect my leadership and management abilities to a position of human service for those who need it most," Deacon McDermott said.
