Starr Commonwealth 2018 Annual Report
The Perfect Person at the Perfect Time
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tarr Commonwealth values all who serve. From trainers and coaches healing children, to administrative leadership making strategic decisions, Starr’s success is a testament to the collective efforts of the organization and its many supporters and volunteers. Some who serve, however, do so in ways that make a generational impact. As current Board chair Craig Carrel attests, John Hallacy’s tenure on Starr’s Board, and the guidance he provided, made him “the perfect person at the perfect time to lead Starr.” “[John] lead with a calm demeanor and compassion as Starr had to make some very difficult decisions… and get back on track,” remembered Craig. “His leadership and vision helped guide Starr through rough times and set us up for the success we have now, and allowed us to continue our 105 years of serving children and families.” Starr recently honored John’s service at the April Board of Trustees meeting. Beginning in 2008, he dedicated 10 years, with 3 as Board chair, to ensuring organizational health and the direction of the Mission. He was also instrumental in President and CEO Elizabeth Carey answering the call to lead Starr Commonwealth, an act that has paved the way for Starr’s current success. If you were to ask Elizabeth, she would give all the credit to John. “I hold in my mind the constant image of [his] solid, stable presence,” said Elizabeth. “John was always there. He was always thinking, supporting, and guiding through change and transformation. Knowing we could rely on him made it possible to make difficult decisions.” John Hallacy’s lasting legacy, to the staff of Starr Commonwealth, will be in his commitment in all opportunities to the children we serve. As Elizabeth reflected, “we can all learn from his ability to believe in a greater good and to lend our voices and hands when we can, as openly as we can.”
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DRIVEN TO HEAL
HONORABLE JOHN HALLACY Immediate Past Board Chair, Starr Commonwealth and Circuit Court Judge, 37th Circuit Court, Battle Creek, MI.