As Haymarket Center celebrates its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its incredible journey, we had the privilege of speaking with Don Musil, former Executive Vice President at McDermott Center. Don’s connection with Haymarket is deeply personal, and his experiences offer a unique insight into how the organization has evolved over the years.
“My mother-in-law felt I would be a good fit for Haymarket Center and mentioned it to her husband, Jack Whalen. One of my first meetings with Father was in his office, and he said, “So you are going to take care of my building?” I replied, “I would.” He smiled and said, “That’s good! We were really small potatoes until we had this building. It’s due to Jack getting the money together, otherwise we wouldn’t have this building.” Those words stuck with me because they reminded me of the importance of teamwork and vision, and how people’s dedication can change the trajectory of an entire organization.
One of my favorite memories of Father Mac revolves around his genuine love for people and his remarkable ability to connect with anyone he met. It seemed like no matter who he was talking to, Father always took a moment to ask, “Where did you go to high school?” This simple yet powerful question wasn’t just about geography, it was his way of showing interest in someone’s background and story. It made people feel seen and valued, as if their history mattered. He truly believed in the importance of understanding people on a deeper level, and it was this deep sense of connection that made everyone feel important.
I will always cherish the countless Saturdays spent walking through the Haymarket Campus with Father, making sure everything was up to his high standards. Father Mac took so much pride in the building, and that pride was contagious. He was always meticulous, ensuring everything reflected the mission and values he held dear. Walking alongside him, I not only saw his dedication to excellence but also his passion for creating a place where people could heal and grow. It was clear that the building wasn’t just a structure; it was a symbol of his mission he worked tirelessly to build.
Father Mac wasn’t just proud of the physical space he worked so hard to build; he was equally proud of his family, his friends, and especially the people he served—the clients of Haymarket. He truly believed in their potential and always sought ways to uplift and empower them. It was a reminder of how impactful leadership can be when it’s rooted in care, humility, and connection.
Personally, those moments left an indelible mark on me. Father’s genuine interest in others and his unwavering commitment to both the people he served and the place he nurtured shaped my approach to relationships and leadership. Professionally, it taught me the importance of building authentic connections, taking pride in the work we do, and always looking for ways to uplift others. His example will always guide me in my personal and professional life.”