2024 40 Under 40 Winners

Jennifer Kamps exemplifies how excellence in healthcare philanthropy requires a blend of expertise and strategic vision. Joining the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation six years ago, Jen has driven significant advancements in strategic child health funding, impact evaluation, and collaborative development of transformative initiatives. Her contributions include launching a new model for co-creating initiatives with health partners, implementing a comprehensive Child Health Funding/Granting platform, and partnering in the development of Canada’s first early-stage investment fund for child health and wellness. Under her leadership, the foundation's annual funding has more than doubled, from $22M to $45.4M. Jen's background in neuroscience and her skills in analysis, critical thinking, and relationship building have been pivotal in earning respect and driving forward the mission of the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation.

Serendipitously! I took on a side project to help a group with the development of their strategic plan. As part of stakeholder interviews, I met with the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation which, at the time, I was not familiar with. I had a great meeting with one of the Foundation’s leaders at that time, and we instantly hit it off. I was so impressed and inspired by the work of the Foundation and the generous support of our community, and two months later I started as director of strategic partnerships.

Until I joined the Foundation, I had no idea a job like mine existed. I will never cease to be amazed by the generosity of our community and the dedication of the care providers, researchers, and leaders who work tirelessly to improve health and wellness. There is seemingly limitless opportunity to create impact through this work, which I find incredibly rewarding. 

While I was working on my PhD, I began to question whether a career in academia still made sense for me. I had worked so hard, was passionate about the research I was doing, and had a bright future ahead of me, but something didn’t feel quite right. I had spent 10 years in university at this point and had no idea what my options were. It took a lot of soul-searching and advice-gathering, but I ultimately decided that after my degree I needed to make a change. After a few months of traveling and a move across the country, I began to explore my options. Now ten years later, I couldn’t be happier with the choice I made.

Traveling. I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to visit more than 25 countries across six continents. I enjoy experiencing new cultures and ways of life, broadening my perspective and appreciation for the human experience.

The generous support of our community is what takes our healthcare systems from great to exceptional. My advice would be to never lose focus on your North Star, which for me is impact. Healthcare is complex and dynamic, but you can always find the motivation and determination to navigate through the challenges when you regularly remind yourself of the reason you’re doing it. I find this particularly compelling in pediatrics when you see young patients and their families facing unimaginable challenges with strength and grace. Everything we do is for them.