2024 40 Under 40 Winners

Stephanie has rapidly advanced within Norton Healthcare's philanthropy team, ascending from Development Coordinator to Director of Major Gifts in 2022 due to her exceptional leadership and fundraising prowess. She has significantly expanded Norton's donor base and secured substantial contributions, including nearly $1 million annually. Stephanie's strategic vision and collaborative approach were pivotal in launching successful initiatives like the Home and BMW Raffle, which consistently surpassed fundraising goals. Her leadership was instrumental in Norton Healthcare's Comprehensive Campaign, where she played a crucial role in achieving $160 million of a $200 million goal. Stephanie's dedication to fostering the next generation of fundraisers and her transformative impact on healthcare philanthropy make her a standout in her field.

My journey into healthcare philanthropy began with a recommendation from my college counselor, who suggested an internship with the American Red Cross. This experience ignited my passion for helping others through philanthropic efforts. After graduating, I was fortunate to be offered a position at the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation and Norton Healthcare Foundation, where I have been able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families.

I chose healthcare philanthropy because it allows me to combine my passion for helping others with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives. Working in this field enables me to support crucial healthcare initiatives and provide resources to those in need. It's incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our efforts have on patients and their families, and that's what drives me every day.

A crucial step in my career journey was transitioning from managing the annual fund to focusing on major gifts. This shift was both exciting and intimidating, as it involved stepping out of my comfort zone into a more demanding role. However, this change has allowed me to build deeper relationships with donors and align their philanthropic interests with our organization's mission. This experience has taught me the importance of taking risks and embracing new opportunities, ultimately leading to more transformational gifts and a greater impact on the causes we support.

My greatest passion is helping others and building relationships with others. I find immense fulfillment in connecting generous donors with causes that transform lives and communities. Knowing that my efforts contribute to positive changes and provide critical support to those in need drives me every day. This passion stems from a deep desire to make a difference and create a better world, one step at a time.

Never stop trying new things, learning and embrace change.