Mercy Connections Board of Directors Announces Retirement of Executive Director Lisa Falcone, Honors Her Many Significant Contributions

Burlington, VT — On August 19, eight years after becoming Mercy Connections’ fourth Executive Director, Lisa Falcone announced her retirement to the organization’s staff. “It has been my sincerest honor to work with all of you in stewarding this incredible organization. My heart is filled with deep gratitude for the lives we have touched together and for the supporters and volunteers who have been vital to our shared mission. The time has come for me to pass this sacred role on to the next generation of leadership,” said Lisa.

Lisa led Mercy Connections through significant change and challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic. She stayed true to the organization’s founding by the Vermont Sisters of Mercy and focused on education, social justice, opportunity for people in need, and practicing radical hospitality.

Recently, Lisa led Mercy Connections and its supporters through celebrating the organization’s 25th anniversary year. She also helped the Board restructure the organization’s governance, doubled the size of the organization’s center on South Champlain Street in Burlington, grew services at the center and statewide, and secured millions of dollars for operations, including a recent $1.5 million multi-year grant.

“Lisa has served as this organization’s North Star for eight years, and we are deeply grateful for her strong leadership,” said Sandy Mayotte, Board Chair. “When she arrived, Lisa brought the vision and determination to stabilize the organization’s finances and grow its base of supporters. During the pandemic, she ensured programs continued and helped staff and participants transition to virtual and remote opportunities. Through it all, Lisa remained absolutely committed to Mercy Connections’ mission of empowering people to make significant life changes through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship, and community. There is no doubt in my mind that Lisa’s leadership has built the strongest possible foundation for Mercy Connections.”

“I have loved this job, particularly getting to know the incredible people and seeing their journeys. One of the things I will miss most is welcoming new participants and guests to our weekly community lunches and introducing them to the rich community that makes Mercy Connections so special,” said Lisa. “My goal has been to ensure Mercy Connections is in the best position possible as it embarks on an exciting future. Now is the time for new leadership and new energy, and for me to focus on my family and the things I want to enjoy in retirement.”

Board Launches Search

With a commitment to ensuring Mercy Connections succeeds for the next 25 years and beyond, the Board of Mercy Connections is launching a search for its next Executive Director. The Board has established a Search Committee, chaired by former Board Chair Michell Langlais, and will share more information about the role on the organization’s website. The Board’s goal is to announce a new leader before the end of the year and work with Lisa and the new leader on a well-planned transition of duties.

“Selecting our next Executive Director gives us the opportunity to honor our rich history while charting the path to an exciting future,” said Michell. “Our Board is taking this transition seriously, and we have assembled a committee and a thoughtful process to identify the right person to become our next Executive Director. There is no bigger task for a Board than hiring its next executive leader, and I am confident we are ready.”

About Mercy Connections

Mercy Connections is a nonprofit founded in 2001 that partners with people to make significant life changes through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship, and community.