COMMUNIQUÉ: The Roncalli International Foundation welcomes a new Director General and strengthens its commitment to its partners
Montreal, July 22, 2026 — The Board of Directors of the Roncalli International Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jacques Paradis as the Foundation’s new Director General.
With over 30 years of experience in leadership roles, both domestically and internationally, Mr. Paradis is known for his strategic vision and creativity in planning and organizational management, as well as his knowledge of the philanthropic and international development sectors. He most recently served as Executive Director of the Quebec-based NGO Collaboration Santé Internationale, a position he held since 2021.
“It is a privilege to take on this role and contribute to the Foundation’s mission, a mission rooted in compassion and humanity,” said Mr. Paradis. “I look forward to working with the team and all stakeholders to help the Foundation carry out its mission and continue to make the greatest impact possible!”
Ms. Danielle Valiquette, who has served as the Foundation’s Executive Director since 2019, is taking on a new role as Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships.
The Board of Directors thanks and congratulates Ms. Valiquette for her leadership, dedication, and contributions over the past seven years. Under her leadership, the Foundation has seen significant growth in its reach, influence, and capacity to support initiatives that drive change.
Changes that strengthen the Foundation’s support to its partners
This organizational change reflects the Board’s desire to build on current momentum and increase the Foundation’s impact. It will strengthen support for partners and deepen collaborations with religious congregations to sustain their missions overseas, as their presence in Canada gradually enters a new phase. As Director General, Mr. Paradis will oversee day-to-day operations and governance, while Ms. Valiquette will focus on the Foundation’s strategic development, strengthening partnerships and forging new alliances to sustain its mission and that of its partners.
“I would like to thank the Board of Directors for their trust, as well as the entire team for their dedication and professionalism over the past few years. It is with great enthusiasm and humility that I accept this new strategic role, in which I will continue to develop lasting partnerships with religious congregations to help preserve and build upon the exceptional legacy they have established in service to the world’s most vulnerable people,” said Ms. Valiquette.
“The board has full confidence in the ability of Mr. Paradis and Ms. Valiquette to expand our support for projects that address the essential needs of communities, particularly at a time when international aid is dwindling while needs continue to grow,” emphasized Ms. Eveline-Louise Gagné, who is succeeding Ms. Nicole Rouillier as president of the Foundation. Ms. Rouillier, who remains a member of the Board of Directors, led the development of the Foundation’s 2025–2028 strategic plan as well as the implementation of this organizational change during her tenure as president.
Following a transition period that began June 15th, both Mr. Paradis and Ms. Valiquette have now assumed their new positions.
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Media Contact:
Catherine Aubry, Communications Officer
Tel.: 514 384-5400 ext. 225
Cell.: Cell : (438) 377-4675
c.aubry@roncalli.ca