- How did you get into health care philanthropy?
I had the privilege of working for CCS, the largest fundraising consultant firm in the country, for many years, which exposed me to a whole host of incredible and diverse organizations and causes; but when I first had a client in healthcare, it just clicked. Healthcare perfectly matched my intellectual curiosity with a compassionate and tangible approach to helping people. Very few other causes have such a deep, universal impact on people everywhere. When the opportunity arose to fundraise in healthcare full time, I couldn’t help but jump at the chance.
- Why did you choose to make health care philanthropy your career?
I always think of philanthropy as the key to unlocking potential. New cures, new discoveries, new leaders and new ways of improving and saving lives. The pebble in the pond analogy is so strong: one discovery in one lab, funded by one donor, can profoundly affect countless lives.
- What has been the #1 factor in your career success so far?
Listening! We talk about this often with our donors, but it is just as important when you work with a board, hospital leadership, peers, and your own team. Understanding the perspectives and experiences of others can inform productive paths forward.
- What is your greatest passion and why?
Kids and family - my own, and the many lives we touch in healthcare. Whenever I walk around and take in what is happening in our children’s hospitals, I am always moved, and have to take action. Small procedures loom large in families’ lives, life-saving treatment and innovation around every corner, and patients and siblings trying to find a moment of normalcy in very abnormal situations. We each have a role we can play to help in each of these scenarios, and mine is helping donors find their role in helping our patients.
- What are your future aspirations?
I hope to continue to inspire people to use their talents and grow in the field of philanthropy, to benefit our hospitals and community organizations.