The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis has hired its first Director of Mission Advancement, Jean Houghton. Currently serving as President of the Aim Higher Foundation, Houghton will lead the new office beginning September 6, 2022.
“I am thrilled to have this opportunity to develop this new, important office in service to the Archdiocese’s mission and the priorities emerging from the Archdiocesan Synod. I very much look forward to collaborating with Archbishop Hebda, Bishop Williams and the entire Archdiocesan Catholic Center staff,” Houghton said.
Houghton has been an invaluable contributor to several recent and vital Archdiocesan initiatives. She helped spearhead the Access and Sustainability Committee of the Roadmap for Excellence in Catholic Education which guides the 96 Catholic schools in the 12-counties of the Archdiocese. In addition, Jean was an integral member of the Archdiocese’s Economic Task Force, which helped parishes and schools navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Jean’s leadership has been paramount to the recent success of the Aim Higher Foundation, the Roadmap for Excellence in Catholic education, and our Catholic schools more broadly,” said Archbishop Bernard Hebda. “I am grateful that Jean has committed to bringing her gifts to the Archdiocesan Catholic Center not only to lead the work of this new office, but to draw on her relationships with so many of our pastors and principals to help the Archdiocese better serve their needs. She has the experience, energy and enthusiasm needed as we move forward as a missionary Church, centered on Christ.”
During her tenure at the Aim Higher Foundation, Houghton oversaw the expansive growth of the organization. Over the last five years, the Aim Higher Foundation has tripled the number of students who receive its tuition-assistance scholarship, now serving more than ten percent of all K-8 students in the Archdiocese. At the Foundation’s most recent event, the Night of Light, Archbishop Hebda called the work Jean led a “movement in service to Catholic schools.”
In February, Houghton received an award from Saint Agnes School, where she served for 18 years prior to her time at the Aim Higher Foundation. At the St. Paul K-12 school, Houghton led a $5.8 million capital campaign and secured lead gifts of more than $18 million for new construction.
“We are counting on Jean to unite people and their giving of time and treasure.” said Bill Lentsch, Chief Operating Officer of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. “Whether someone has the capacity to give a few dollars or a few million dollars, a few hours or several months of their time, supporters will experience Jean’s love of Christ and love of the people in his Church. I am looking forward to her leading our efforts to develop and coordinate an Archdiocesan-wide development plan and foster a culture of stewardship and generosity.“
Jean and her husband, Tom, are parents to three adult children and are members of the Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul.
For further information, please contact Tom Halden, Director of Communications.
Email: haldent@archspm.org
Phone: 651.291.4525
