40 Under 40

1. Stephanie's leadership directly contributed to a 61% increase in overall revenue since she joined the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation (SJRHF). In the same period, direct mail revenue increased by 221%.

2. Stephanie was one of 27 United Way professionals from around the world to participate in the 2010-11 Global Resident Fellows Program from United Way Worldwide.

3. As a Summer Scholar with CASE, Stephanie attended their fundraising institute at Dartmouth College on a full scholarship.

4. Stephanie was featured in a 2018 issue of AFP's Advancing Philanthropy magazine.

1. How did you get into health care philanthropy?

I began my career in community fundraising, later transitioned to higher-ed advancement, and was excited to redirect my interest and energy to health care philanthropy. It has been, without a doubt, the most energizing and rewarding experience of my career. 


2. Why did you choose to make health care philanthropy your career?

We can all relate to the saying, “if you have your health, you have everything”. I was motivated by the opportunity to directly impact the quality of health care in New Brunswick and how philanthropy improves the lives of patients and their families. Every day, I see what patient outcomes are made possible by our generous donors - it serves as a constant reminder (and inspiration!) of how important our work is in health care philanthropy. 


3. Tell us about a pivot point or crucial step in your career journey.

I’m really pleased to say that life has thrown enough curve balls (it’s these gems for which I’m most grateful and have taught me the most), as well as presented some spectacular opportunities, that there is no one single ‘ah-ha’ moment. While I don’t have that one point to share, I can give credit to the approach I carry with me; fearlessness of change (not in general-I will always pass on rollercoasters and wearing pale yellow!) has always led to incredible things. Not only am I always open to it, but I get excited about seeking it out. Far too often, fear of change drives decisions in both professional and personal lives and it can be absolutely paralyzing for people and organizations. I always strive to ask questions that welcome change, “Is this the best that we can do? How can we make it better?”. It is this trait which has supported me in taking on different roles, facing challenges head-on, cutting out unproductive traditions, and trying new things within the organizations I’ve joined. It has truly led to some of my greatest accomplishments and experiences.  


4. What was your first job, and what is something it taught you?

In the summer of 1994, I had a full-time job as the gate attendant at a seasonal campground. 40 hours per week were spent in a 4’ X 4’ kiosk, responding to camper needs and processing gate fees. I was 13 years old. In giving up the summer my friends were enjoying, I learned about sacrifice and reward, how to manage the expectations of a role, how to work with all types of people (no matter how difficult they were!) and to be grateful for such opportunities. It was here that I gained the understanding of how gratitude can reframe how one experiences their day and the people around them. 


5. What are your future aspirations?

To keep learning from as many people and experiences as I can. The more I learn, the better I can be and the greater impact I can have on those around me.