(Silver Spring, Md.) – Holy Cross Health recently announced Alisa Smallwood, CFRE as its new Chief Development Officer, succeeding Wendy Friar, who retired in October 2020, after a 35-year tenure with the Trinity Health ministry.
Alisa Smallwood, CFRE, is the new Chief Development Officer at Holy Cross Health
In her role, Ms. Smallwood leads the planning, development, implementation and management of all fundraising-related gift program initiatives with a focus on major, transformational and planned gifts. These in turn support the long-term, sustainable and transformative growth that is responsive to the evolving needs and strategic direction of Holy Cross Health.
“I am pleased to announce Alisa’s appointment as Chief Development Officer,” said Norvell V. Coots, MD, President and CEO of Holy Cross Health. “Alisa comes to us with a wealth of experience in health care philanthropy and was instrumental in the expansion of Grady Health System where she served as Vice President for Development at Grady Health Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia.”
“Alisa eagerly stepped into the role during a time of great challenge and change as our ministry navigated hospital operations during the pandemic. We know her passion and expertise will enhance our mission to be a transforming and healing presence in our community.”
Ms. Smallwood brings more than 27 years of experience supporting organizations in healthcare, higher education, arts and culture, and social services. Prior to joining Holy Cross Health, she was Vice President for Skystone Partners, where she consulted with clients in nonprofit organizations in arts and culture, higher education, healthcare and social services sectors across the United States.
She is a former board member of Certified Fundraising Executives (CFRE) International, has held the designation of CFRE since 1999, and was named a master trainer by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) in 2011. Ms. Smallwood earned her Bachelor of Music degree from North Carolina Central University and a Master of Music in Music Theory from Indiana University.
About Holy Cross Health
Holy Cross Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit, people-centered health system that serves the two most populous counties in Maryland, Montgomery and Prince George’s, with a commitment to being the most trusted provider of health care services in the area. Founded in 1963 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Holy Cross Health is a member of Trinity Health of Livonia, Michigan. Holy Cross Hospital, in Silver Spring, is one of the largest hospitals in Maryland, and Holy Cross Germantown Hospital is the first hospital in the nation on a community college campus, enhanced by an educational partnership. The Holy Cross Health Network operates primary care practices and affordable health centers and offers a wide range of innovative, community-based health and wellness programs. Specialty care, home care, and hospice services round out Holy Cross Health’s high-quality and coordinated continuum of care that aims to improve health and move life ahead for individuals and populations in the communities served. In fiscal 2020, Holy Cross Health contributed nearly 10 percent of its $602 million in revenue to community benefit activities that meet community needs and improve access to health.