2025 40 Under 40 Winners

Emily built a successful grateful patient and pipeline development program at Michigan Medicine and later led the launch of a comprehensive analytics strategy for Corewell Health, significantly advancing fundraising operations. Emily’s leadership in data-driven strategy has been instrumental in preparing Corewell Health for its next major fundraising campaign, aligning prospecting efforts with long-term institutional goals. 

In 2024, she was selected to present at the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Conference, highlighting her national recognition as a thought leader in philanthropic analytics and prospect development. 

She serves on the board of APRA Michigan, where she contributes to advancing professional standards and innovation in fundraising research and strategy. 

I was working in central development at a large academic institution when a position opened up on the healthcare team. It felt like the right time to make a shift into an area I’ve always felt strongly about.

Between raising kids and supporting loved ones through their own health journeys, I’ve seen how vital it is for everyone to have access to compassionate, quality care. I wanted to be part of something that helps make that possible for others.

There have been a few turning points in my career, but one that really stands out is when I made the move to Corewell Health. It was a big shift for me, going from a large academic institution where I’d been for 12 years to a standalone healthcare system. I had gotten comfortable in my previous role, so stepping into something new was both exciting and humbling. I quickly realized I couldn’t just hit the ground running the way I was used to. I had to slow down, ask a lot of questions, and really take the time to build relationships with a new team and understand a different culture and work practices. It pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected, and I honestly feel like it made me a more well-rounded professional. I’m also really lucky to be part of a team that values collaboration and supports each other, I feel very lucky to be where I'm at.

If I had to choose, I’d say my greatest passion is learning. I’m energized by the process of discovering new things, taking on challenges, and constantly expanding my perspective. I truly believe in learning something new every day, it keeps me curious, grounded, and growing. That mindset shows up in every part of my life, whether I’m traveling and exploring new cultures, trying out a new recipe, or finding creative ways to engage with my kids. It’s also what led me to pursue my MBA. I wanted to keep building on what I knew and push myself in new directions.

My biggest piece of advice for someone new to healthcare philanthropy is to stay curious and stay connected. This field is always evolving, programs shift, priorities change, and there’s always something new to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out different perspectives, and lean into your network. Building relationships, both within your organization and with peers across the field, can open up so many opportunities for growth and collaboration. The more you engage, the more you’ll understand the impact of your work and how to make it even more meaningful.