James J. McCarthy

Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award

The Friends of Mercy Medical Center are pleased to give the Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award to James J. McCarthy. James, affectionately known as JJ, is a lifelong Rockville Centre resident who has dedicated his life to the improvement of his local community. Born and raised in Rockville Centre, James was educated in Rockville Centre and went on to graduate from Niagra University. JJ then served overseas for two years in the United States Army. Upon his return from the service, JJ went to St. John’s University where he studied African Asian history. JJ began his career teaching in Long Beach public schools and eventually transitioned into investment banking, working for financial powerhouses including Drexel Burnham, Kidder Peabody, Dean Witter, and Advest. By the end of his 35 year career JJ was a Senior Vice President of Institutional Sales and Trading.

JJ’s altruistic side is evidenced by the many organizations that he has donated his time and talent. They include but are not limited to: Past Chairman and Member of Rockville Centre Zoning Board of Appeals, Past President of The Benevolent Association of the Rockville Centre Fire Dept., Past Member of the Board of Directors of Mercy Hospital, Past Member of the Board of Directors of Hempstead Golf & Country Club, and Past Chairman of Lexington Country Club Estate Home Committee.

JJ served 14 years on the Friends of Mercy Board of Directors, in addition to being a Past Chair of the St. Patrick’s Dinner & Golf Outing. JJ currently serves as Honorary Chief of the Rockville Centre Fire Department where he is still active after 57 years.

JJ is most proud of his family. He and his loving wife, Betty Ann, have been married 53 years and are the proud parents of James Jr. and Mary Beth. They are also the proud grandparents of five grandchildren.