Sisters of St. Joseph Welcome First COO

Brentwood, NY — The Sisters of St. Joseph are pleased to announce the appointment of Susan D. Williams, CPA, MBA, DBA, as the congregation’s first Chief Operating Officer (COO). Dr. Williams will officially begin her role on March 2, 2026.

The creation of the Chief Operating Officer position marks a significant step forward for the Sisters of St. Joseph, as they continue to strengthen their operational infrastructure in support of their enduring mission and ministries. As COO, Dr. Williams will oversee operational strategy, financial stewardship, and organizational effectiveness, ensuring that the Congregation’s resources are aligned with its mission.

“I am deeply honored to join the Sisters of St. Joseph and to support their beautiful charism of unity and reconciliation,” said Dr. Williams. “This community’s unwavering commitment to service and compassion inspires me, and I am eager to learn from their rich legacy and lived values. I am truly excited by this opportunity and look forward to strengthening the operational foundations that allow the Sisters and their partners in mission to continue bringing God’s love to all without distinctions.”

Dr. Williams is an accomplished finance and operations executive with extensive leadership experience in higher education. She currently serves as Senior Vice President for Finance and Operational Innovation at Manhattanville University and has held key leadership roles at several institutions of higher education throughout her distinguished career.

A Certified Public Accountant, Dr. Williams holds a Doctor of Business Administration from Case Western Reserve University, where she was awarded a nonprofit fellowship in recognition of her commitment to mission-driven leadership. She brings decades of expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and operational transformation.

Widely respected by colleagues for her dedication and integrity, Dr. Williams is known for fostering collaborative environments that inspire innovation and accountability. Her leadership style is marked by approachability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to supporting others. Throughout her career, she has built and guided high-performing teams, driving strategic initiatives and operational improvements that advance institutional goals while honoring core values.

“Susan’s expertise, vast experience, and commitment to our CSJ charism will enhance and enrich our mission and ministry and move us forward into our promising future,” shared S. Tesa Fitzgerald, CSJ, President of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

The search process, guided by a dedicated committee, sought a candidate with strong financial acumen, strategic vision, and a deep appreciation for mission-driven service. Susan Kropf, retired president and COO of Avon Products and a member of the search committee, shared her enthusiasm.

“We are thrilled to have found a candidate of Susan’s caliber and are confident that her passion for our mission and her wealth of experience will contribute greatly to our work,” Ms. Kropf said.

As the Sisters continue to deepen their impact and steward their legacy, Dr. Williams’ leadership will help ensure strong operational systems that support mission effectiveness and long-term vitality.

Founded in 1856, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood are a congregation of women religious dedicated to serving the “dear neighbor” without distinction. Their ministries span education, healthcare, social services, spirituality, and advocacy, both locally and globally. Rooted in the charism of unity and reconciliation, the Sisters partner with lay collaborators and organizations to respond to the evolving needs of the times with compassion and courage. For more information about the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood and their ministries, please visit brentwoodcsj.org.