Sister Deborah M. Drago MARLBORO – Sister Deborah M. Drago has been named the new executive director of Collier Services, a nonprofit social service agency that operates educational, recreational and residential programs for at-risk youth.
Drago succeeds Sister Ellen Kelly, who will step down on May 31 after 12 years as the director to become the pr ovinc ial of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, Province of New York. Kelly will be responsible for the ministries of the Sisters in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, according to a press release.
“The years at Collier have been wonderful, especially working with so many people dedicated to our mission here at Collier and in the county,” Kelly said. “I have confidence in Sister Debbie’s leadership to grow and develop our services in response to community needs. I know I am leaving Collier in good hands.”
During her tenure as the executive director, Kelly positioned Collier Services as a leading social service agency in Monmouth County by responding creatively to the changing needs of at-risk youth and their families, according to the press release. She also advocated for children’s issues through collaboration and legislative action in county and state forums.
Kelly increased the scope of the agency’s nonsectarian educational, recreational and residential services. She added three programs: JET, a summer Job Experience and Training program for teenagers; Project Eco, a summer special education and recreation program; and Collier House, a transitional living program for young women.
According to the press release, she improved and expanded the facilities, including the construction of a million dollar addition to Collier High School, the installation of Internet access in all classrooms and offices, and most recently a “green” program to make Collier more energy efficient.
Drago worked at Collier High School for eight years before becoming the vocation director for the Sisters of the Good Shepherd in 1997. Over the years, she maintained her connection with Collier, leading counseling groups for students and parents and various mission effectiveness activities with the staff.
Drago said, “I feel very honored and blessed to be part of this noble and lifebearing work here at Collier and for the opportunity to work more closely with such a talented and committed staff.”
The mission of Collier Services is to provide at-risk youth a chance to grow toward their potential in an environment that promotes belonging, dignity and hope.
The mission is based on a philosophy of deep respect for the inherent worth of each individual and the belief in the capacity for personal change that is consistent with the ministry of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, according to information from the school. Collier operates Collier High School, Kateri Environmental Center and Day Camp, Project Eco and JET on the Collier campus in the Wickatunk section of Marlboro, Collier Group Home in Red Bank, and Collier House in Keyport.

