Patrick “PJ” McMenamin: A Legacy of Leadership, Community, and Philanthropy

In his 15 years on VNA Health Group’s Board of Trustees, Patrick “PJ” McMenamin brought a financial strategist’s mindset and a passion for philanthropy to his volunteer leadership. His tenure as Chair from 2018 to 2023, however, called for something more: steering the organization through leadership transitions and extraordinary challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’ve always believed strongly in the VNA’s mission: empowering people to live their best lives, wherever they call home,” PJ said. “When COVID hit, our focus was on protecting our staff and patients while staying active in the community. It was an intense period, but we communicated constantly, bounced back quickly, and were able to really be there for our patients.”

Under PJ’s leadership as Board Chair, VNA Health Group maintained high-quality care for home health and hospice patients while becoming a critical partner in New Jersey’s vaccination effort. Pop-up clinics and large-scale community outreach helped safeguard vulnerable residents across Monmouth County and beyond.

PJ also helped lead the organization through a CEO transition and significant governance enhancements, including updated board term structures designed to promote strong, ongoing stewardship. In addition to his six years as Chair, he previously served as Vice Chair and Treasurer and sat on the Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Governance Committee, and Investment & Pension Committee.

“My philosophy as board chair was all about stewardship—providing sound guidance and surrounding the organization with trustees who bring real expertise,” he said. “We have a great board with trustees who want to participate and really bring their treasures and talents to the organization, from CEOs of healthcare organizations to major executives at investment banks. We’re very fortunate that way.”

PJ first joined the board during the tenure of former CEO Mary Ann Christopher and continued through the leadership of Dr. Steve Landers. As Board Chair, he helped guide the organization through the CEO transition from Dr. Landers to President & CEO Christopher Rinn in June 2023, providing guidance and ensuring stability throughout the process.

Beyond his leadership at the board level, PJ has also worked to strengthen VNA Health Group’s ties to the community through philanthropy and engagement. For 15 years, he and his wife, Patty, have chaired the annual Holiday Bash at Spring Lake Golf Club, often alongside co-chairs Teresa and Bill Egan.

“We felt well-represented in northern Monmouth County—Rumson, Middletown, and Lincroft—and wanted to expand awareness beyond that area so we could get more people involved,” he explained. “The generosity of this community has helped the VNA care for so many families.”

Since 2010, the Holiday Bash has raised over $1.7 million to support VNA Health Group’s hospice services, maternal and child health programs, and access to care through VNACJ Community Health Center.

PJ’s years of board service have given him a front-row view of the dedication required to deliver VNA Health Group’s mission. “They are all in,” he said of the nurses and staff. “Whatever the challenge, they show up because they know their care matters. It’s inspiring.”

As he concludes his service on the Board of Trustees at the end of 2025, PJ reflects on a chapter defined by resilience and progress. “Term limits are healthy. They refresh the board and bring in new perspectives,” he said. “But I’ll always be a supporter of the VNA’s mission. It’s a great organization doing critical work for our communities.”