2024 40 Under 40 Winners

Eric Barkyoumb's career spans 15 years of impactful leadership in strategic marketing and philanthropy, culminating in his current role as Director of Philanthropy at Dignity Health in the East Valley of Phoenix. His tenure has been marked by exceptional achievements, including surpassing fundraising goals by raising $25 million in just three years and securing significant gifts like a $5 million corporate/foundation donation and a $2 million corporate gift. Eric's innovative grateful patient program has garnered hundreds of appreciative responses and gifts, underscoring his commitment to patient-centered philanthropy. He also champions community involvement, volunteering extensively with local organizations and receiving accolades such as the Fiesta Bowl Chairman's Choice Award for Outstanding Volunteer.

Throughout the first 15 years of my career (in professional sports), I had the distinct pleasure of working alongside Dignity Health as a business partner. When the opportunity presented itself to join Dignity Health in philanthropy, I was enthusiastic about the idea and hopeful that my skills and professional experiences would translate. I made the jump and six years later, I'm so grateful that I did because it's been such a rewarding experience!

I thoroughly enjoyed all of the people at Dignity Health that I came into contact with over a number of years, and genuinely believed there was something special about this organization and that "humankindness" was truly present here. After welcoming our first child at a Dignity Health hospital, I reached out to my colleagues and expressed my desire to find a way to show my gratitude to this incredible organization for the compassionate care my family had received. Every grateful patient story is different, and my story led to my joining the ministry and working to advance healthcare by connecting others to our mission through philanthropy!

Without a doubt, becoming a father was a pivotal point in my career journey. Through parenthood, my focus on a career that was exciting and flashy evolved into a focus on a career filled with meaning and impact. I love being able to share with my children about what philanthropy is and the importance of supporting organizations that make our community healthier and safer.

My family is my passion. My life's most significant accomplishment has been finding a spouse who fills my heart and makes me a better person, and my life's greatest blessing is to have children to raise with her. They are my legacy, and everything I do is with the intention of creating a brighter, healthier, more joy-filled future for them.

Focus on your "Why" and set out to help others find or fulfill theirs. Generous donors come from many places and backgrounds, but each has a story and a "Why" that they ultimately want to connect with. Be authentically YOU in building genuine relationships with people inside and outside your ministry and those relationships will be fruitful!