Thank you for supporting Cincinnati Children’s!

Breanne Bovara

Vice President & Wealth
Management Advisor
Fifth Third Private Bank

"Mental health advocacy is a philanthropic focus for my family, and I’m thrilled that my involvement on the council will align with that emphasis of creating a safe environment for children to find help for mental health challenges they may be facing."

Bre was inspired to join the Emerging Philanthropists Council when she heard about our new William K. Schubert, M.D. Mental Health Center a 160,000 square foot facility dedicated to providing personalized care for all patients.

“There’s a reason Cincinnati Children’s is #1 in the nation, with a focus on comprehensive mental, physical, and behavioral care. I’m grateful to continue to witness and support these critical community initiatives through EPC."

Ryan Brew

Senior Project Executive
Messer Construction

“I’ve always felt a lot of pride working for Cincinnati Children’s – It is truly in its own class.” 

Ryan Brew has been a member of the Children’s family since 2017. He also currently oversees the construction renovation account at Cincinnati Children’s. 

With three young kids at home, Ryan says his family’s experience as patients is one of the biggest factors motivating him to engage even further. 

“It’s no surprise we are frequent flyers at Cincinnati Children’s. My daughter had a 4 day stay in the PICU at just 2 months old, and I was comforted, even in the scariest time of our lives, that we were being seen at the top hospital in the country."

Andrew Cassady

Senior Litigation Counsel
Cintas

Andrew is a 5-year member of our Emerging Philanthropists Council.

After years of watching our expert medical professionals care for his twin sister, Andrew was looking for the opportunity to give back in any way possible.

“The Emerging Philanthropists Council provided that avenue, allowing me not only to lend my time but also to learn more in-depth about all the amazing things Cincinnati Children’s is doing for its patients, their families and the community.”

Sam Curran

Senior Wealth Advisor
Mariner Wealth Advisors

“Cincinnati Children’s provided our family with hope during an incredibly difficult time-period. We will forever be grateful and indebted to this incredible organization for all that they have done, not only for our son, but for children across the world.”

Through the EPC, Sam Curran joins with other grateful and passionate community members to continue making an impact on child health in powerful ways.

“The Emerging Philanthropists Council has allowed me to give back what was received – but also to help make the greatest investment possible – our next generation’s, or children’s, health and wellbeing.”

Hugh Jackson

Cardiovascular Service Line Business Development Manager
Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care

“As a recent transplant to Cincinnati, I've searched for ways to become better connected to the community and contribute to more than myself.”

For Hugh, joining our Emerging Philanthropists Council was a chance to learn about the heart of the Cincinnati community and build relationships in a new place.

“I am excited by the opportunity this council affords its members to benefit the children of our community for years to come.”

Rachel McCarthy

Vice President of Development 
American Health Association

“I’ve seen the amazing research and outcomes that Cincinnati Children’s provides to our community and well beyond.”

Rachel oversees all fundraising efforts of the American Heart Association’s local Cincinnati chapter. Some of her main events include Heart Ball, Heart Mini-Marathon & Walk, Go Red for Women and CycleNation. She goes the extra mile to promote these prestigious events and create an impact on our community.

“I’m part of the Emerging Philanthropists Council because, in my field, I see the power of generosity when a community comes together. To have the opportunity to connect with other leaders to support the health system’s most pressing needs is an absolute honor.”

Jess Salzbrun

Chief Information Officer of Defense & Systems
GE Aerospace

“At five weeks old, our daughter Noa was diagnosed with a brain abnormality and severe epilepsy. Over the next two years, she went from having 40 seizures a day while taking seven medications, to being fully seizure free, weaned off all meds, and with no developmental deficits. Groundbreaking brain surgery and world class care at Cincinnati Children’s changed the course of her life.”

Jess found her place at GE Aerospace in 2018 after leading high-growth tech start-ups and working with data and process change roles. In her role, she oversees digital strategy, ensures regulatory and cybersecurity compliance, and delivers technology solutions across engineering, supply chains, sales and product sustainment. Beyond her impact on the industry, she also leaves her mark on her community through her philanthropic efforts.

“The Emerging Philanthropists Council represents one small way to give back to the organization that gave our family so much.”

Jill Smith

Vice President of Sales
Kroger Precision Marketing

“Ever since moving back home in 2018, I have been so incredibly impressed with the way Cincinnati Children’s Hospital supports not only the children in greater Cincinnati, but the support and impact they have worldwide.”

Jill’s journey in the media industry showcases her dedication and relentless innovation. With over a decade of experience at NBC and New America Marketing, she has honed her skills—shifting her focus to developing efficient marketing strategies and refining sales practices. While making waves with Kroger Precision Marketing, Jill makes time to speak at community events to share her insights on navigating the constantly evolving industry. She’s presented at the ANA Media Conference, Brand Innovators Marketing Leadership Summit at CES and the IAB Annual Leadership Meeting among many more. Jill thrives in this dynamic field, keeping her community up to date with rapid changes and actively engaging with organizations that leave a lasting impact.

“I'm eager to continue to help raise awareness of the great work Cincinnati Children’s is doing and look forward to giving back to this great city as a member of the Emerging Philanthropists Council.”

Joshua Smitherman

Business Development Manager
Jostin Construction

"I am inspired by the incredible work that Cincinnati Children's Hospital does every day. Joining the Emerging Philanthropy Council allows me to contribute to their mission and support the families they help."

Joshua was motivated to join the Emerging Philanthropists Council due to his deep commitment to community engagement and the impactful work of Cincinnati Children's.

“There’s a reason Cincinnati Children’s is a leader in pediatric care, with a focus on comprehensive mental, physical, and behavioral health. I’m grateful to witness and support these critical community initiatives through EPC."

Avery Williams

Head of IR & Platform
HealthQuest Capital

“Reflecting on a chance encounter two years ago, I recall the significant impact Cincinnati Children’s had on a family who traveled five plus hours for their son’s treatment here. It struck me then how fortunate I was to have a world-class resource ‘in my backyard.’”

Outside of work, Avery said, her journey to becoming a mother herself helped her recognize the hospital’s significance in the community on a whole new level.

“Joining the Emerging Philanthropist Council was the ideal way to give back to this organization while also seeing the innovative strides being made across the hospital.”