After Nearly 20 Years of Service, Executive Director Mary Pat Lee Announces Retirement
With a full and grateful heart, I share that after nearly twenty years at the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and 47 years in nonprofit service, I will retire as Executive Director at the end of June 2026. It has been the honor of my life to lead alongside you—our most dedicated supporters and volunteers.
Your generosity has made the Crisis Nursery a trusted haven for children and families in their hardest moments, developing trauma-informed care, expanding services, and creating thousands of strong, healthy families.
I still remember one of the first children I met: a bright 4-year-old boy whose big feelings made it hard for him to find calm and trust. Today, he is a young adult, perhaps even a father himself—his life forever shaped by the care, stability, and support he received here. Just as his life was strengthened and transformed at the Nursery, so too have the lives of thousands of other children and families. The Board has begun a thoughtful succession process.
Together we will:
- Rely on our strong leadership team to guide programs during the transition.
- Partner with an executive search firm to identify the next leader.
- Invite input from donors, volunteers, and community partners.
- Communicate openly throughout the process.
With this planning, I am confident the Crisis Nursery is poised for a strong future. I hope you will continue to stay closely connected during this transition; join us at events, watch for updates, share your insights, and most importantly, remain a steadfast partner in caring for children and families on their toughest days. Thank you for the trust you have placed in me and for the generosity and heart you have shown to the children and families we serve.
With gratitude,
Mary Pat Lee
Executive Director
Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery
Return to news listing.