Shalom House, a Portland-based nonprofit providing housing and community-based mental health services, has hired Abigail Spadone as its next executive director, the organization announced on April 30.
Spadone, an internal candidate who has worked at the nonprofit since 2017 and served as clinical director since 2019, will officially assume the role in July. She succeeds longtime executive director Mary Haynes-Rodgers, who is retiring after 18 years leading the organization.
The leadership transition comes as the organization continues to respond to the aftermath of a fatal stabbing on May 4 at a Shalom House residential facility on Woodford Street in Portland. According to published reports, police charged a resident of the group home with murder following the death of program manager Marlene McNeill, a longtime employee who had worked for the organization for more than a decade.
The organization shared on Facebook that it is devastated by the loss of a colleague.
“Marlene was an incredible person and an irreplaceable part of Shalom House. She was a mother, partner, colleague and friend to so many,” said the post.
“Marlene was an irreplaceable part of Shalom House, and her impact on this work is long-lasting. Marlene was kind, compassionate and deeply respected by all who knew her. During this difficult time, we want to come together to support her family and express our deepest condolences for their loss.”
About Spadone
During her tenure as clinical director, Spadone spearheaded the development and implementation of electronic health records at Shalom House, expanded the clinical department to enhance services for clients and support for staff, and led program development for the Mellen Street property, providing independent apartments and community-based services to individuals living with mental illness.
Prior to joining Shalom House, Spadone held leadership positions at Catholic Charities of Maine.
Spadone earned her bachelor’s degree in applied psychology from Montana State University and her master’s in social work from Smith College.
Shalom House reported total revenue of $37.9 million in the 2025 Mainebiz Giving Guide.
