Print Issue: April 11, 2002

SVDP Executive Director Agrees To Stay In Post

ATLANTA - St. Vincent de Paul Society Executive Director Sheila Bissonnette formally rescinded her resignation after the Society's Executive Committee unanimously requested that she continue in her leadership role.

Bissonnette, who had announced her resignation on Feb. 1, 2002, has served as executive director for the past 13 years and was instrumental in the unprecedented growth the society experienced during that time. This growth included increased direct aid to those in need, the development of education, housing and donated goods distribution programs, as well as a move to larger and more efficient facilities.

Speaking for the executive committee, Council President Alan W. Urech said, "The St. Vincent de Paul Society is entering into an exciting new phase of its ministry and service to the community. The executive committee felt strongly that Sheila was the right person to provide the inspiration and guidance necessary to establish the Society as a first line community service provider."

With her resignation originally slated to become effective March 31, 2002, Bissonnette who felt God had told her it was "time to move on" reflected on the unexpected turn of events. "I kept questioning why I had to leave a ministry that was so fulfilling and life-giving. As God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his son, maybe God was testing my faith by asking me to give up something so meaningful in my life."

The St. Vincent de Paul Society is a nonprofit volunteer member organization dedicated to serving anyone during times of need. An international organization of lay people, the Society has a presence in over 135 countries. Active in Georgia since 1903, the Society's Atlanta Council and its 66 member conferences now serve those in need throughout north Georgia.

For information contact Mark Karell, director of communications, at 770-986-4209 or mkarell@svdpatl.org.