The Sanford Health Foundation and Good Samaritan Foundation have new leadership heading into the new year.
Deb Koski, formerly the Sanford Health Foundation’s system executive director, has officially assumed the role of chief philanthropy officer. She now oversees all philanthropic strategies and initiatives across Sanford’s system of care, including for the Good Samaritan Society.
For many, Deb is already a familiar face, respected colleague and mentor. She joined the Foundation in 2004 to lead the fundraising campaign for the construction of Sanford Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls. Since then, she has contributed immensely to Sanford’s continued growth through her love for fundraising and relationship building.
“This role perfectly combines everything I’ve learned, and I am incredibly enthusiastic about the strategic direction of the organization and the Foundations’ role in supporting our patients and residents, people and communities,” Deb said.
Throughout her 22-year fundraising career, which includes five years with United Way, Deb has led teams responsible for every aspect of fundraising, including planned, major and annual giving, donor stewardship, volunteer management, special events, finance, data analytics, gift processing, and marketing.
Deb has a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from the University of South Dakota, a certification in healthcare fundraising management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business and has achieved the professional designation of certified fundraising executive (CFRE).
In addition to her professional fundraising experience, Deb is an active community volunteer. She is a member of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy and has served on the board of the South Dakota Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Deb also serves on the board of Sioux Falls Thrive, the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation and has volunteered with Meals on Wheels for more than 20 years.
Deb and her husband, Sheldon, live in Sioux Falls. They have two teenage sons, Preston and Keaton.