An unstoppable force within-and beyond-the halls of St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, Maxine “Maccy” Paley has played a monumental role in strengthening the hospital for over 50 years. Her personal story, however, intersects with St. John’s much earlier. Paley’s birth at the Hospital in 1927 put her on a path defined by a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others. As both a volunteer and President of the Hospital Auxiliary, she poured herself into non-stop, year-round fundraising. From organizing annual lunches to weekly plant sales and bake sales, tennis and golf tournaments, and the Chrysanthemum Ball, Paley has always recognized that support can come from anywhere, and is a communal effort. This awareness even extended to the Hospital Gift Shop, which she immediately stepped up to manage after its acting supervisor moved on. Eventually joining the Development Board as Secretary, she and the team would work to raise more than $11,000,000 over the years. Her unwavering devotion to making healthcare more equitable was honored at the 2022 Golf Tournament, and continues to be celebrated among the Hospital community every day. 

Paley’s concern for the wellbeing of everyone she comes across, whether they be patients, their families, or her colleagues, exemplifies the St. John’s ICARE Foundation core value of Compassion. Hoping to foster a soothing environment for those being treated at the Hospital, Paley and her beloved dog, Boots, became certified to visit patients. The duo has captured hearts ever since. She also recently purchased one of three custom St. John’s Comfort Carts. Tailored to meet the needs of new mothers, anxious loved ones, healthcare workers, and others, these bundles of goods offer a reprieve from life’s trying moments. An initiative that is unique to the Hospital, Comfort Carts are a testament to the fact that, oftentimes, it is the smallest gestures that make the greatest impact. Instilling a personal touch into every project she takes on, Paley has laid an unbreakable foundation that has enabled St. John’s Episcopal Hospital to prosper.