Providence Announces New Philanthropy Leader

Press release from Providence: 

Providence South Division Philanthropy announces the appointment of Danna Grant as its new Executive Director of Donor and Community Engagement.

Danna joins Providence on October 9, 2023, and in her role will be responsible for leading the strategy and execution of donor engagement activities that will accelerate the philanthropic goals of the 14 foundations in

California. “We couldn’t be happier about Danna joining the Providence South Division philanthropy team. Her 20 years of experience in strategic planning, fundraising and stewardship will have a positive impact in the communities we serve,” said Kenya Beckmann, chief philanthropy and health equity officer, Providence South Division.

Prior to joining Providence, Danna served as Senior Vice President of Advancement, for the Hoag Hospital Foundation overseeing development and donor relations. The Hoag Hospital Foundation is the philanthropic arm of one of the top-ranked hospitals in California. As a member of the Foundation’s senior leadership team, Danna partnered directly with the president, board of directors and hospital partners to execute major fundraising initiatives vital to the growth of the Hoag health system. She began her career with the Foundation as Vice President of Donor Relations, a role in which she established a productive and creative donor experience team that elevated stewardship, communications and experience-driven processes. In that role, she led the team during the onset and continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic and effectively managed crisis communications, implementing virtual events and experiences and creating a digital space for messaging and donations, resulting in raising more than $8 million.

“We sought a leader who had extensive industry knowledge and the capacity to drive organizational change and Danna Grant holds those qualities and so much more,” said Greg Gissendanner, associate chief philanthropy officer, Providence South Division.

“I am thrilled to join the Providence family and I am equally excited to build upon the success and hard work of our partners throughout the South Division,” said Danna Grant, executive director of donor and community engagement.

Danna has held leadership positions at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and the University of Dayton in Ohio. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Agriculture and Developmental Economics from The Ohio State University. Originally from Wilmington, Ohio, Danna now lives in California with her husband Jim of seven years and their four-year-old daughter.