- How did you get into health care philanthropy?
I have worked for Beacon Health System in various capacities since 2002. In 2012, I was employed in the pharmaceutical industry (while still consulting for Beacon) when I received a call from a former colleague. She informed me about the position of senior major gift officer with Beacon Health Foundation, and encouraged me to consider it. After reflecting upon the role and its responsibilities, I concluded that it was a perfect fit for my interests, skill set, and values.
- Why did you choose to make health care philanthropy your career?
Health care is a fundamental human need, and the position of senior major gift officer at Beacon Health Foundation presented me with an ideal opportunity to utilize my broad-based health care experience in a fulfilling and challenging way. The most appealing aspect of becoming engaged in health care philanthropy was that I knew it would enable me to directly impact the delivery of exceptional care to benefit our region’s patients and families. I also knew that Beacon was on the verge of launching a capital campaign to build a new children’s hospital, and I was eager to be a part of bringing that vital project to fruition for our community.
- What has been the #1 factor in your career success so far?
My consistent passion for my work, coupled with my extensive experience in health care and valuable mentoring from colleagues. During my 16 years at Beacon, I have held positions in diverse areas such as managed care, medical group practices, health care consulting, and now the Foundation. The knowledge I have acquired about each of these areas has given me a keen understanding of Beacon Health System and the health care industry at large. This has enabled me to help prospective donors better comprehend the health care system and appreciate how their gifts can make a profound difference in the lives of our patients and their families.
- What is your greatest passion and why?
My family and friends! Their guidance, support, and love empowers me to be the best working mother and professional I can be.
- What are your future aspirations?
The field of health care philanthropy has been more professionally and personally gratifying than I ever could have imagined when I began my work at Beacon Health Foundation six years ago. In the rapidly changing landscape of health care, the need for robust philanthropic support is more urgent than ever. During the years ahead, I am excited to continue pursuing the meaningful path that philanthropy provides to -- as Beacon’s mission statement says -- “enhance the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the communities we serve.”