Women At The Helm 2010

These dynamos lead some of America’s most influential nonprofit organizations—they are fighting the good fight and their work enriches our lives in countless ways.

Marianne T. Duddy-Burke
Executive Director, DignityUSA

A veteran of the nonprofit sector and experienced in health care and elder care, Marianne Duddy-Burke leads DignityUSA, the country’s foremost LGBT Catholic organization. “People who are deeply committed to a cause are very motivated to take risks and go beyond their comfort zones for the greater good,” Duddy-Burke observes, describing the inspirational aspects of nonprofit work. “They are often surprised by what they can accomplish, and the movement gains new energy, talent and ideas.” Duddy-Burke, who holds a master’s degree in theology, stresses the importance of DignityUSA’s work. “It’s critical for the entire LGBT justice movement. Catholics are the largest denominational voting bloc in the country. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of Catholics are very supportive of LGBT equality. Harnessing this support and getting Catholics to act on their beliefs, rather than allowing out-of-step bishops to dominate the debate, will enable us to reach our goals more quickly.”


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