Kelsey understands that building a strong planned giving program takes time and that its success depends on laying and building upon a solid foundation. As such, she is leading a donor journey campaign using various communication channels to educate current and potential donors about the basics of planned giving, the various donation vehicles, and the importance of estate planning. The result is the creation of a measurable, segmented pipeline where donors move through the "consideration", "intention", and "commitment" stages. Kelsey is emotionally moved and motivated by the deep connections that donors often have to the organizations that provide them or their families life-saving care, like Children's Health, making for a more fulfilling conversation about how they can give back.
I grew up watching my father work in the pharmaceutical industry, witnessing first-hand the impact that preventative and curative healthcare has around the world. When I was recruited into healthcare philanthropy from higher education, I discovered that it fulfilled my passion for directly improving the community in which I live.
I appreciate the comparative challenge of healthcare philanthropy due to its drive for innovation and commitment to the diverse people it serves. Specifically, by working in planned giving in healthcare, I am often humbled by the legacies of life that people are empowered to create for themselves and in honor of loved ones.
The pivotal moment in my career journey was when I first stepped into philanthropy as a full-time job. While I was still struggling to pursue a viable career in education, I had accepted a phonathon student role during my graduate studies. From that first fundraising job working under a passionate, inspiring, and intellectually curious supervisor, I have never looked back at any other career path.
I am dedicated to connecting people with their passions to serve the public good. Having recently completed my dissertation on the historical power of the multitude to preserve and promote their communities through philanthropy, I am confident in the ability of the field to shape a new future that matches the needs of a changing society.
A patient or patient family who doesn’t have significant capacity (or is currently burdened by medical bills) is likely still seeking a meaningful way to give back, now or later. Successful philanthropy comes in all forms and sizes; there is a way for everyone to express their gratitude through philanthropy.
I lived in Switzerland for seven years and have traveled to over 30 countries.