Laó‑Collins to Retire after 15 Years of Transformational Leadership
TRENTON, NJ – After 15 years at the helm of a growing social service agency, Marlene Laó‑Collins, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton, has announced she will retire this December marking the close of a remarkable chapter in the organization’s history.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend our deepest gratitude to Marlene for her extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Michael Herbert, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her advocacy, compassion and vision have helped shape Catholic Charities into the strong and vibrant organization it is today. The impact of her work will be felt in our communities for many years to come.”
As the face of Catholic Charities for more than a decade, Laó‑Collins guided the agency through some of its most challenging moments. Her drive and steady leadership were unmistakable throughout the COVID‑19 pandemic, particularly as the organization made the bold decision to keep its doors open and continue serving those most in need. In 2021, when the first wave of Afghan evacuees arrived at Joint Base McGuire‑Dix‑Lakehurst, she immediately committed the agency’s full support, ensuring every guest had access to essential resources and compassionate care.
During Laó‑Collins’ tenure, the agency was selected by SAMHSA to operate one of the nation’s first Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), expanding access to mental health and substance use treatment. Under her direction, Catholic Charities also forged several groundbreaking partnerships to address critical health needs and broaden its capacity to serve marginalized communities. In 2025, she led the agency to earn full accreditation from The Joint Commission, widely recognized as the nation’s “Gold Standard” for healthcare quality and safety.
Additional highlights of her leadership include launching a Capital Campaign raising $5.6 million and receiving an honorary Doctorate in Public Service from Georgian Court University.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside dedicated colleagues, partners, and supporters in advancing the mission of Catholic Charities,” she said. “The job of lifting our brothers and sisters when they need support can be heavy, but the meaningful difference we’ve made for so many is rewarding. I leave with deep gratitude and great confidence in the future of this organization.”
The Board of Trustees has begun the process of identifying the next Executive Director and will work to ensure a smooth transition. The Board, employees and supporters of Catholic Charities extend their heartfelt gratitude to Marlene for her years of dedicated service and wish her every happiness in her well‑earned retirement.
To subscribe to our blog posts and news releases, fill out the fields below.
Marlene Laó‑Collins joined Catholic Charities in 2011. This December, she will retire from her role as Executive Director.