Greatest Good McDonogh Names New Director

When Jen Pineau ’97 talks about her new role as the director of Greatest Good McDonogh, it’s clear she is invigorated by all that the program has achieved in a few short years and its endless potential. Stepping into the position previously held by Bridget Collins ’90, Pineau says she is energized by the opportunity to work with so many different people on campus and to continue the efforts of the signature program.

Since returning to McDonogh in 2007 as a member of the Middle School faculty and serving as a college counselor for the past 13 years, Pineau has been involved in service-learning programming and is committed to the work of equity and inclusion. She represents the best of what distinguishes excellent teaching and mentoring: patience, a keen ability to listen, and a big heart.

In accepting the leadership role, Pineau says, “I am really honored to have the opportunity to take this amazing program that Bridget created to the next level.” She adds that she looks forward to working with Greatest Good McDonogh Program Director Artie Spruill to strengthen the projects and partnerships she has established and to bring new groups into the fold. “Artie has a wealth of knowledge about how nonprofits work, the challenges they face, and where volunteers can be helpful,” she says.

Pineau also sees the opportunity to further tap into the potential of the McDonogh community — whether an athletic team, a student service organization, or a second grade class — to engage interpersonally and make lasting connections. “When you feel connected, you’re more likely to really put your heart into it,” she explains. “When you know better, you do better.”

She adds that she is grateful to David Rothschild ’82* for his vision for Greatest Good McDonogh and his conviction that by teaching students to do the greatest possible amount of good in thought, word, and deed, one day they are going to make an impact in the world. As the parent of three McDonogh students, Pineau has witnessed the Program’s impact on her Lower and Middle School children as they are developing habits of mind, volunteering, and understanding what it means to be a philanthropist. “They are learning to recognize that they can figure out what their passions are and that they have the power to make a difference.”

In looking to the future of Greatest Good McDonogh, Pineau sees the potential for students, their families, and faculty in every division to get involved. “It’s a super exciting opportunity!” she says.

*David Rothschild ’82 and the Rothschild Foundations are committed to advancing educational initiatives that inspire philanthropic and social engagement. They catalyzed the launch of Greatest Good McDonogh in 2019 with an endowed commitment and partnership support.

- Meredith Bower