2025 40 Under 40 Winners

As Director of Philanthropy at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, Katherine led the major gifts team through a transformational recovery post-pandemic, growing annual fundraising revenue from $23 million in FY20/21 to nearly $90 million in FY23/24, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by a wide margin. 

Now, as Associate Vice President of Philanthropy, Katherine leads a 14-person team responsible for generating over 70% of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s annual revenue, currently projected to surpass $110 million—a record-setting year for the organization. She was the primary relationship manager for a historic $60 million donation for cardiac research, working cross-functionally with donors, executives, and physician partner. 

As a licensed physician and former clinician trained across Russia, the UK, Malaysia, and Canada, Katherine bridges the gap between healthcare professionals and philanthropy—earning the trust of physician partners and donors alike. 

As a medical doctor and a previously practicing family physician, I volunteered as a physician at the hospital, partnering with the hospital foundation. At times, I was part of the solicitation committee with donors. From those experiences, I saw many different facets of the patients that I wouldn't have had the opportunity to see in clinical settings. Those experiences were refreshing, and I enjoyed every bit of them. I eventually made a career switch when an opportunity arose in philanthropy, and I never looked back.

Having previously practiced medicine and benefited from philanthropic funds in a clinical setting, I enjoy sharing with donors and the community why their support is so essential.

I often get to speak with donors in my physician and fundraiser hats, switching between them at different times. So, what is not to love? The ability to utilize my medical knowledge to advance healthcare philanthropy brings me so much joy.

When I made the decision to retire completely from medicine.

Mentorship. I have benefited from having wonderful mentors throughout different phases of my career, and we have since built lifelong relationships, often becoming like family. It is so important to have your trusted circle along the way to be your best self.

I have since become a mentor to others. It has been an enriching journey.

Be genuine and authentic about your love and passion for the healthcare industry. There will be much to learn, much to explore, and there will never be a 'correct' path as someone advances within the sector of healthcare philanthropy. So, don't feel like you need to have it all figured out from the very beginning.