Mary J. Novak, the sixth executive director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, is the first lay leader to guide the organization founded by Catholic Sisters 52 years ago. As an Associate Member of the Congregation of St. Joseph, Mary’s diverse background as an organizer, trauma-informed lawyer, educator, chaplain, and restorative justice practitioner uniquely informs her leadership. Novak champions a shared leadership model, positioning NETWORK for the future and fostering flourishing relationships with partners in pursuit of justice. A graduate of Santa Clara University Law School and Washington Theological Union, she previously served at Georgetown University Law Center. Novak chaired the Board of the Catholic Mobilizing Network and currently chairs the Advisory Board of the Initiative on Restorative Justice and Healing at the University of St. Thomas Law School.