From start as chapter coordinator, diverse experience brings versatile skill
Nancy Haskell, 41, a Michigan native who has worked for Legatus since 1999, became Legatus’ vice president in September 2017. Formerly the Great Lakes regional director, Haskell now oversees a variety of the organization’s day-to-day activities. While attending the Legatus 2018 Summit in January, she spoke with Legatus magazine staff writer Brian Fraga.
Nancy Haskell
What does your role as vice president entail?
As vice president, I am responsible for Legatus’ magazine, marketing, website, and training department, as well as Legatus’ forums and ambassador Atlarge programs. To enhance and expand Legatus, I also assist with overall strategic planning and new chapter development.
How did your previous positions in Legatus prepare you for this new role?
I feel very prepared. Having started as a chapter coordinator and serving in a variety of roles to this point, I have a good knowledge of the organization. I understand the Legatus membership and the field staff positions that serve them. I’m looking forward to using this knowledge to enhance all of the departments that are involved in my new role.
What does the future hold for Legatus?
Right now, the focus is on enhancing the Legatus experience and introducing the Legatus mission to as many Catholic executives as possible. As the Legatus team works to expand throughout the entire United States, we’re striving to grow the Legatus Endowment Fund to raise the necessary funds to expand internationally.
What drew you to Legatus early on?
I have always been passionate about firing up Catholics for their faith. Before joining Legatus, I shared my personal testimony at youth events, served on Net Ministries, and organized retreats at my local parish. I felt that if Catholics knew more about their faith, as a result, they would be on fire about it and the Faith would become contagious to others. When I received an invitation to work for Legatus, I knew the Legatus mission to study, live, and spread the Faith would be a perfect fit for this passion.
What value do you see Legatus having for its members and for the Church?
Legatus is truly a ministry where Catholic business leaders are offered the opportunity to deepen their faith through monthly events that offer the sacraments, fellowship, and education through top-notch presenters. The membership includes extremely talented people who know how to get a job done. It’s wonderful to watch them partner with other Legatus members and to be inspired by their peers. The value of having a business executive living out the Faith is not limited to a business leader’s soul, but has the infinite potential to dramatically change the Church through spoken and unspoken evangelization with family, community, peers, and employees.
What was your life like growing up?
I grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My entire family is Catholic and passionate about the Faith. My dad is a Legatus member, retired attorney, and actively running a nonprofit. I couldn’t speak more highly of my parents and entire family of origin which includes four siblings, spouses, and 16 nieces and nephews. I have four children. My daughter, Mariah, is at Ave Maria University, and I have three sons – Josh is in high school, Caleb is in middle school, and Elijah is attending grade school.
Do you have any hobbies or interests?
I love to ski and do event planning for my family and friends.
How would you describe your experience at the Legatus Summit?
I enjoy seeing Legatus members connect with other members from across the country. A typical Legatus experience is at the chapter level where members get to see the impact locally. However, when members attend the Summit, they get to see firsthand the impact that Legatus is having on the world.