Foundation Board of Directors

 

Sister Rosemary Connelly, RSM, Chairman

Sister Rosemary is a member of the Religious Sisters of Mercy. A native Chicagoan, she attended parochial schools and taught in several Archdiocesan school while continuing her studies. In 1959, Sister Rosemary earned a B.S. in Social Science. She then earned a Master of Arts in Sociology from St. Louis University in 1966 and a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 1969.

Sister was appointed Administrator of Misericordia Home in 1969, and served as its Executive Director until 2021 when she was appointed Chairman of the new Misericordia Foundation. Sister Rosemary’s leadership has been integral to Misericordia growing into a loving, challenging and dignified environment for more than 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 

Lois Gates, Executive Director

Lois was appointed Executive Director of the Misericordia Foundation in 2021. A graduate of DePaul University with a degree in nursing, Lois has been an integral part of the Misericordia staff in every department throughout her 50+ years of service. Lois most recently served as Associate Executive Director of Misericordia Home, directing Public Relations and Development efforts.

She plays an integral role in leading the auxiliary groups that help support Misericordia, including the Women’s Board, Women’s Auxiliary and Women’s League, a well as numerous events and fundraisers. Lois helped found the SIBS group (Sharing Involvement with Brothers and Sisters), which hosts Misericordia’s annual Artist in All silent auction and benefit program.

 

 

Brian Battle, Director

Brian serves as Director at Performance Trust Capital Partners, a financial services firm that offers a wide range of financial advisory and investment banking services.

 

 

 

 

Jennifer Fortner, Director

Jenny serves as Managing Director of the Chicago Office of Goldman Sachs and is on the board of Special Olympics Illinois.

 

 

 

 

Elida Hernandez, Director

Elida serves as Chief Financial Officer of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago.

 

 

 

 

Jim Capraro, Director

Immediate Past Co-Chair of the Misericordia Family Assn. (MFA). 53 years of experience in community organization and revitalization. 37 years as the Executive Director & CEO of a non-profit community development.