Saddleback Medical Center Foundation Announces New President

LAGUNA HILLS, CA —Christy Ward has been appointed the new President of Saddleback Medical Center Foundation, the nonprofit organization MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center announced Tuesday. Ward began her role in June 2021.

Ward will oversee the philanthropic foundation and will help align strategic fundraising goals across the entire organization by enhancing the culture of philanthropy and strengthening partnerships with physicians and the community, the nonprofit reports. She will also focus on fundraising in areas that enrich overall patient experience and increase technological advancements for the hospital. Additionally, she will help private donors maximize their philanthropic impact in meaningful areas, exploring the most tax-advantaged current and planned giving strategies that will benefit the donors and ensure excellent patient care for this community.

Ward spoke on her new role.

“I am moved by the warmth and personal approach to patient care by the MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center nurses, physicians and staff, and I’m inspired by our visionary leadership to expand and grow our ability to care for this community,” she said. “It’s an honor to be in a position to help donors make an impact on this beloved hospital by ensuring that the dedicated Saddleback staff are well-equipped to continue providing first-rate care with a personal touch."

For 25 years, Ward has gained experience in major and principal gift fundraising across health care and higher education. She is a seasoned fundraising leader who is dedicated to driving forward the mission of nonprofit organizations by building powerful and sustainable philanthropic partnerships.

In her most recent role as Vice President of Hoag Hospital Foundation, Ward elevated the impact of major, principal and planned gifts by strategically engaging visionary philanthropists with clinical leaders during the successful $760 million Hoag Promise campaign. During her seven years at Hoag, she launched several successful and innovative initiatives, with highlights that include leading development for the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute and launching the Hoag Innovators, a unique philanthropic platform to catalyze healthcare innovation.

Ward has 14 years of experience in higher education outside of the healthcare industry with roles at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Chapman University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

She is a well-respected voice and has consulted for banks and private wealth advisors seeking insight on the philanthropic plans of their clients. In addition to her numerous career achievements in her community Ward sits on the Corona del Mar High School Foundation board, has served as a panelist for Girls Inc., and has volunteered for decades in youth sports. She received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Public Relations from the University of North Carolina.

“We often hear from donors that their philanthropic journey with MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Foundation enriches their lives, just as much as it improves community relationships and patient experience,” said Marcia Manker, CEO MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center. “With Christy taking the helm in this new role, we are excited for her to help us further strengthen community ties and foster engaging relationships with donors that will help ensure we continue providing the highest, most advanced level of care for our patients.”