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In New York, the Catholic Extension Society honored Kerry Alys Robinson, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, with its 2024 Spirit of Francis Award. Father Jack Wall, president of Catholic Extension, described Robinson as “a great mentor of faith, hope, love and leadership.”
Father Wall further praised Robinson by stating: “You are one of the most articulate and inspirational voices in the church today, and you are giving continual witness to the transformative power of the risen Christ at work right here, right now. You are a great woman of faith.”
The award was presented to Robinson on December 3 during Catholic Extension’s 10th annual Spirit of Francis Award dinner. Sister Carol Keehan, who previously served as president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association until her retirement in 2019 and received the award in 2022, also participated in presenting this year’s honor.
Catholic Extension explained that proceeds from the event would support women’s leadership and ministry within the church—an area Robinson has been committed to throughout her career. These funds will aid ministries led by Catholic women in regions served by Catholic Extension and contribute to forming new parish and diocesan women leaders.
Father Wall emphasized the connection between Catholic Extension's mission and that of Catholic Charities: “Catholic Charities dedicates itself so beautifully and impactfully with the Gospel call to eradicate material poverty. At Catholic Extension, we are about the corporal works of mercy. Catholic Extension Society is dedicated to the eradication of spiritual poverty.”
Robinson expressed gratitude upon receiving the award: “My work on behalf of the church...has always included work to promote the role of women in meaningful positions of leadership in the church... For without the leadership...of women, along with men, the whole church is impoverished.”
She also acknowledged a strong partnership with Catholic Extension: “As Father Jack mentioned, Catholic Charities has a special affinity and affection for Catholic Extension Society,” adding appreciation for women across America serving those in need.
Catholic Extension Society has been supporting communities in impoverished areas since its inception. It funds various programs aimed at enhancing education and formation for women within the church through scholarships and development initiatives.
Catholic Charities USA represents 168 member organizations nationwide that collectively serve over 16 million vulnerable individuals annually. Robinson took on her current role at this organization in 2023 as its second female leader.
Beyond her role at Catholic Charities USA, Robinson remains involved with other philanthropic endeavors such as being a lifelong member of her family’s Raskob Foundation for supporting good works within the Church since 1945.
Robinson also holds executive roles at foundations like Opus Prize Foundation while having successfully directed significant fundraising efforts for institutions such as Yale University’s St. Thomas More Chapel.
