Every year since 2018, we have recognized and celebrated young professionals who have made a significant contribution to the field of healthcare philanthropy through the 40 Under 40 program. Here are a few words of wisdom from the 2025 40 Under 40 Class:
We asked, “What piece of advice would you give someone new to healthcare philanthropy?”
My advice for someone new to healthcare philanthropy is to focus on building genuine relationships. It’s not just about asking for donations, it’s about understanding the stories behind the causes and connecting with people on a personal level. Listen carefully, be patient, and stay curious about the impact your work can have. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from experienced mentors. Healthcare philanthropy is both challenging and incredibly rewarding, and the stronger your relationships, the more meaningful your impact will be.
Listen to donors, listen to patients, and listen to the community. Say yes to new learning opportunities, say yes to opportunities to engage with clinicians, and say yes to a mentor who wants to guide you. Healthcare philanthropy, at times, brings great uncertainty— use the stories and lessons you collect as inspiration for your work.
Healthcare is complex, and decision-making in a matrixed organization involves many layers. As fundraising professionals, our role is to align philanthropy with the hospital’s strategy—not to drive it. Trust in your hospital partners’ ability and motivation to chart the course for care in your community. Then, go out and invite donors to join you on that journey.
Be intentional about the people who surround you. You'll have more ability to do this as your career progresses, but early on you can focus on finding great mentors and colleagues who support you, push you to do your best, and care about helping you achieve your goals. Don't be afraid to reach out to colleagues, even managers, whose work you admire, but also don't underestimate what you can learn from your peers and people in different positions than yours. It's just as important to support and advocate for those people right back; become a resource for people who do good work and who care about others' success.
Never forget: your voice matters. Your ideas matter. And your presence makes a difference. Healthcare philanthropy places you at a unique intersection of innovation, compassion, and community. Never underestimate the impact one donor, one story, or one conversation can have. Show up with your whole heart—this work is a gift, and so are you.
- Amy Ramnarine, MA, CFRE