Salisbury, MD – TidalHealth is proud to announce the promotion of Jessica Hales from Senior Director and President of the TidalHealth Foundation to Vice President, Chief Philanthropy Officer, and President of the TidalHealth Foundation. In her new role, Hales will continue to lead the foundation’s philanthropic efforts while expanding its strategic influence across the organization’s health services.
The promotion also features elevation to the health system’s Executive Team.
“Jessica’s unwavering commitment to our mission, coupled with her deep understanding of the power of philanthropy, has been instrumental in the growth and success of the TidalHealth Foundation,” said Steve Leonard, Ph.D., MBA, FACHE, President/CEO of TidalHealth. “As Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer, she will continue to foster meaningful connections between our donors and the transformative healthcare services TidalHealth provides to our community.”
Hales, who has served as President of the TidalHealth Foundation since May 2022, has been a driving force in connecting donors with the hospital’s programs, facilities, and services. Under her leadership, the Foundation has secured significant donations that have supported patient care initiatives, medical equipment, and community health outreach efforts.
In her expanded role, Hales will continue to oversee all philanthropic activities for TidalHealth, including major gifts, planned giving, donor stewardship, and fundraising campaigns. A key focus will be ensuring that donors understand the direct impact their contributions make on the health and well-being of individuals and families within the TidalHealth service area.
She will continue to build and deepen relationships with both new and long-standing supporters, guiding them to areas where their gifts can make the most meaningful difference.
“Philanthropy is about more than just giving—it’s about connecting donors to our
mission and showing them how their contributions play a critical role in advancing healthcare on the Delmarva Peninsula,” Hales said. “Through this partnership with our donors, we can help ensure that TidalHealth continues to deliver excellent care while also enhancing the patient experience, expanding services like our Graduate Medical Education program, and advancing medical innovation.”
TidalHealth is committed to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the community and relies on the generosity of donors to help fund vital programs, cutting-edge medical research, and facilities improvements. The continued growth of the TidalHealth Foundation under Hales’ leadership, including an expanded presence with the anticipated spring partnership with Atlantic General Hospital, will further solidify TidalHealth’s role as a leading healthcare provider in the region.
For more information about how you can support TidalHealth or learn more about the TidalHealth Foundation, please visit tidalhealth.org/ways to give.
