Leadership Teams

“The Basilica of Saint Mary has been an integral part of our lives for as long as we can remember. We were married here, and our son Oliver was baptized here. Throughout our lives, The Basilica has been more than a church. Like so many others, it has been our spiritual home, a place of beauty and inspiration, and a refuge in times of struggle.

It’s a beacon of hope for the Twin Cities and beyond. Now, The Basilica needs us. Together, we can ensure its comprehensive restoration, preserving its legacy for generations to come. We invite you to join us in this transformative effort by giving generously to sustain this extraordinary landmark and all it stands for. Let’s keep The Basilica shining as a symbol of faith, love, and community.”

– Bill and Michelle Pohlad, Honorary Co-chairs

The vision for the scale of this project requires close coordination across numerous stakeholders, disciplines, and workflows. Establishing a formal structure to manage alignment, decision-making, and execution is foundational to the restoration process.

Governance

The complex restoration work requires collaboration across The Basilica, The Basilica Landmark, and at times, our Archdiocese. Excellent and timely communication and effective coordination are needed so the various facets of the project are in sync and relevant information is shared among key stakeholders as well as Parish and Landmark leaders. To this end, in 2024 The Restoration Executive Committee was established to effectively coordinate this important restoration project.

Restoration Executive Committee (REC) Membership

  • Fr. Daniel Griffith | Pastor/Rector and Archdiocese Liaison,
    Capital Campaign and Development, Aesthetics and Design
  • Tom Paul | Parish Trustee and Chair of REC
  • Steve Sefton | Landmark Board Past President and Archdiocese Liaison
  • Mary McMahon | Landmark Board Past President and Archdiocese Liaison
  • Deirdre Palmer | Landmark Board President and Liaison to Landmark Board
  • Steve Brown | Landmark Vice President
  • Jill Ahern |  Executive Director, The Basilica Landmark
  • Nathan Mueting |  Managing Director of Mission Advancement, The Basilica of Saint Mary
  • Peter Crain | Liaison to the Buildings and Liaison to the Contractor
  • Dan Ahern | Communications and Branding
  • Audra Johnson | Finance and Operations
  • Johan van Parys | Aesthetics and Design, Development
  • Susan Link | Parish Trustee
  • Doug Craven | Building and Project Logistics
  • Laura Simpson | Parish Finance Committee
  • Brigette Olson | Administrative Assistant to REC

Committees:

  • Communications and Branding
  • Finance
  • Construction and Logistics
  • Aesthetics and Design
  • Capital Campaign and Development