Niagara Health recently welcomed a well-known and familiar face to the Board of Directors.
Mary Maida, who was appointed during the Annual Meeting on June 25, volunteered at Niagara Health as a patient partner, bringing a unique perspective and personal understanding of the hospital’ programs and services with her into this new role.
As one of the founding patient partners of the Niagara Health Engagement Network, Maida lent her expertise and firsthand perspective to more than 35 projects and committees aimed at improving patient and family experiences.
“Mary’s extensive experience as a leader spans both private and public sectors. In addition to being a long-time resident of Niagara, she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and strong understanding of the communities we serve,” says Board Chair Marylee O’Neill. “We are very pleased that she has chosen to join the Niagara Health Board of Directors.”
Maida's professional journey began in non-profit consulting. With more than 20 years of experience as a senior fundraising executive, she has held a variety of leadership roles within the non-profit sector including work in social services, environmental, education, faith-based, healthcare and heritage sectors. She has also held key positions with Community Living St. Catharines and Hospice Niagara, and currently serves as the Director of Development with The Brown Homestead. Additionally, she is an active member of the Niagara Fundraiser's Network.
Niagara Health would like to thank outgoing Board members Elisabeth Zimmermann and Stephen Murdoch for their outstanding service and contributions to Niagara Health and the Board of Directors.
“It has been such a privilege to be a member of the Niagara Health Board of Directors. There are a lot of challenges in healthcare but as a member of this board I have seen the dedication and commitment to continue to look for innovative solutions to work around challenges, with patients always at the forefront,” says Elisabeth Zimmermann. “I am deeply proud of the staff, physicians, volunteers and board for the incredible work they do every day and I leave knowing confidently that they will continue to evolve and grow to meet future challenges.”
“Since joining the board three years ago, I have had the opportunity to witness incredible transformation as the hospital system moved passed the challenges of the COVID-19 global pandemic, and refocused its efforts on recruitment, clinical research and building a model for the future of healthcare in Niagara,” says Stephen Murdoch. “I am very grateful for the time I served and know that Niagara Health has the right leaders in place to deliver on these commitments."
A full list of volunteer Board members and their backgrounds can be found on the Niagara Health website.