Arthur J. Wechsler, Chair of the St Mary’s Hospital Foundation Board of Directors, is pleased to announce that Nadia Wendowsky, CFRE has been appointed the new President & CEO of the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation, effective August 4, 2025.
“I am delighted to welcome Ms. Wendowsky as the next CEO of the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation. She brings a wealth of expertise and accomplishments to the job and the Board of Directors is highly confident that the Foundation will continue to grow and meaningfully contribute to the St. Mary’s Hospital community under her leadership,” stated Mr. Wechsler.
Wendowsky brings over 13 years of experience in academic and healthcare-based philanthropy, having spent over 9 years in progressive leadership roles in Advancement at McGill University and, most recently, the last 4 years leading a national team as Vice-President, Leadership and Corporate Giving for the Canadian Cancer Society where she achieved exceptional results. Ms. Wendowsky is also a proud graduate of McGill University (BA 2007).
“I am thrilled to be joining the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation team. I am looking forward to working closely with the team to deliver on our mission to support St. Mary’s Hospital by raising funds and awareness to better community healthcare through research, teaching, clinical care, and critical infrastructure. With the support of a dedicated and engaged Board of Directors, a proud and deeply committed donor community, and the remarkable legacy of Cynda Heward, I look forward to leading the Foundation into its next chapter—building upon its strengths and driving impactful change for St. Mary’s Hospital and the community we serve.” said Ms. Wendowsky.
As previously announced, this appointment follows confirmation of Cynda Heward’s upcoming retirement as President & CEO of the Foundation and a rigorous search process led by a committee of directors and supported by an external executive search firm. Cynda will remain available to ensure a seamless transition for our new leader.
The Foundation’s Board of Directors and the broader St. Mary’s Hospital community are thrilled to welcome Nadia to the team.
