Jennifer Paroly

Philanthropic Leadership at the Community Level

By: Nichole Naoum

It can be tough to pinpoint what makes someone a great leader. Still, we know one when we see one. While leadership skills are important in every sector, it has become even more mission-critical in the non-profit world. Without it, a non-profit may never reach its full potential. Purpose-driven organizations often have multiple stakeholders, and all constituents need to be in full support of their leaders in order to succeed. Whether they are on the front lines or behind the scenes, these team members need to have confidence in the organization’s mission and the passion to see it through.

For Jennifer Paroly, her approach to leadership in the field has been deeply influenced by her own values and experience. Having worked with the Tri-City Medical Center for more than 15 years, she currently serves as the Tri-City Hospital Foundation’s Chief Development Officer and President.

Since 2008, she has managed the American College of Surgeons (ACoS)/Commission on Cancer (CoC) – Cancer Program accreditation and played a key role in the foundation receiving accreditation for its Breast Cancer Center by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

Long before she was president, Jennifer already had a deep passion brewing for Tri-City Medical Center and the community it served. “It was born out the exceptional care I saw exhibited every day in my role as Cancer Program Accreditation Consultant. Wanting to see the medical center continue with its mission, I simply walked down to the foundation office and said, ‘I am here to help.’ Eventually, I was invited to join the foundation’s board of directors and then to step in as president. I remain inspired every single day!”

According to Jennifer, approaching philanthropy as a long-term, collaborative investment empowers individuals and companies to meet the needs of people within their own communities. Paroly shares with GB Magazine, “The foundation encourages the community to see its neighbors, its family, its business up close and personal. And when you pause and really look, you may see needs you may not have encountered before and quite possibly, see the solution or at least contribute resources to find the solution.”

In addition to the many hats she wears at the Tri-City Hospital Foundation, Jennifer has been on the foundation’s committee for the annual fundraising gala for over 10 years. This year’s 41st Annual Diamond Ball will be held on October 23rd, 2021 at the Omni La Costa in Carlsbad, offering a unique indoor/outdoor black-tie experience, complete with a champagne reception, live and silent auctions, and an incredible performance by the multi-platinum singer-songwriter Seal.