2024 40 Under 40 Winners

Kristen has demonstrated exemplary leadership over five years at the Inova Health Foundation, initially joining as a Philanthropy Specialist and advancing to oversee community fundraisers and cultivate philanthropic culture among clinical partners. She established key connections and trained fellow gift officers, significantly increasing referrals and leading a team that solicited $1.26 million for mid-level giving. Kristen's strategic approach to mentorship includes immersive experiences for junior officers, fostering a collaborative environment for development. She achieved notable milestones, including surpassing seven figures in annual fundraising by December 2021 and securing a career-high major gift of nearly $2 million in Fall 2023. Kristen's impact extends to spearheading innovative fundraising platforms and initiatives, enhancing community engagement and donor relationships at Inova. Her involvement in committees like the Art Selection and Fun Committees underscores her commitment to enhancing patient care and team cohesion through philanthropy-driven initiatives.

During college, I completed a nonprofit fellowship that provided an internship with a local nonprofit providing subsidized housing to local individuals and families. That is where I found my passion for mission-driven work. This exposure to local nonprofit work led me to seek a junior fundraising role at Inova, specifically supporting Inova Schar Cancer and the team that cared for my family during our cancer journeys. 

In short: I, myself, am a grateful family member of Inova. I feel it is a sincere privilege to support the team that continues to take care of my family, friends and community.

A pivotal moment in my career was when I first assumed a leadership role, managing a team of junior gift officers. The experience brought me new responsibilities, challenges, and immense joy. It was profoundly rewarding to nurture a young talented team and witness their professional growth. Knowing that I contributed to shaping their careers in healthcare philanthropy in a small way was both fulfilling and inspiring.

Giving back. Whether personal or professional, giving back and contributing to the greater good is what fuels my soul. My life mantra is: “Because I was given much, I too must give.” I try to embody that in everything I do. 

Be genuine and be you! Lead with empathy and compassion. Don't be scared to pick up the phone.