Holiday Express Welcomes Eileen Higgins as New Executive Director

On Aug 15, 2022

Eileen Higgins has been named executive director of Eatontown-based Holiday Express, a nonprofit organization that delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to those with the greatest need for “the gift of human kindness” during the holiday season and throughout the year.

Since 1993, Holiday Express has relied on staff and more than 1,500 volunteers to make the work it does possible. According to Holiday Express Founder Tim McLoone, “We here at Holiday Express are delighted to announce the appointment of Eileen Higgins as our new executive director. Eileen brings a world of experience in the nonprofit sector and, even more importantly, has been a volunteer and board member of Holiday Express for many years. We are confident that in her new role, she will help Holiday Express navigate the ever-changing nonprofit landscape and lead us forward in ‘bringing the gift of human kindness’ to the many thousands of people we serve each holiday season.”

Prior to Holiday Express, Higgins served as the chief executive officer for Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore from 2017-2021 where she and her team were responsible for reversing a 17-year enrollment decline and boosting philanthropic support by 30% to increase community impact.

During her more than 30 years of work experience in nonprofit business environments, she has created an extraordinary record of developing strong community partnerships, innovative program development, increasing organizational efficiencies, and building and retaining boards of directors. The Fair Haven resident holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Richmond and a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers.

Higgins is replacing Lorrie Klaric, who served as the organization’s executive director since 2013. “I am honored to work with Holiday Express as we enter our 30th season,” says Higgins. “Lorrie and her team navigated the pandemic and provided the best possible experience for the populations we serve, no small feat for an organization that thrives on in person interaction. I am excited to partner with our staff, volunteers, board and community supporters to continue to grow Holiday Express and deliver music, support and friendship during the holidays. ”

As Executive Director, Higgins’ daily responsibilities include community cultivation, strategic planning, board development, financial accountability, and oversight of operational functions. She will work out of the Eatontown headquarters.

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