Meet Our Staff

Message from our associate vice president of development

We live in an extraordinary time in the history of medicine. An explosion of biomedical research in human genetics, neurosciences, and many other areas is enabling physicians and scientists in the University of Minnesota Department of Pediatrics to make medical breakthroughs that were unimaginable only a few short years ago. The role of philanthropy in advancing this research has never been greater.

Our development officers are poised to assist you in making a meaningful difference in the lives and health of children with a broad range of conditions. We look forward to working together with you to ensure a healthier future for our community's—and the world's—youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

Jennifer L. Soderholm
Associate vice president of development for children's health
Director, children's health campaign
Minnesota Medical Foundation

Our development officers

Elizabeth Patty
Director of Development
Children's Health
612-273-8638

Elizabeth Patty has 15 years of fund-raising experience and has served the University of Minnesota for more than a decade. Prior to becoming a director of development at the Minnesota Medical Foundation, she was the foundation's first director of event planning, where she oversaw execution of more than 30 fund-raising, stewardship, and donor cultivation events. Prior to that, she was associate director of development for pediatrics, where she secured more than $1.75 million in private philanthropic support of such events as WineFest and Party in the Park. Other University positions she has held include associate director of development, corporate and foundation relations, University of Minnesota Foundation; director of community outreach and career programs, University of Minnesota Alumni Association; and coordinator of alumni giving and programs, College of Education and Human Development. Before moving to the Twin Cities in 1996, Elizabeth worked in the advancement field in Chicago, as manager of community relations and special events coordinator at the Howard Brown Health Center and as assistant director of development, marketing, and systems at Columbia College Chicago. She currently serves on the board of directors of Open Arms of Minnesota.

Other staff members who can help you

Stephanie Borchardt
Campaign Associate
Children's Health
612-273-8643

A 2004 alumna of the University and former community organizer with the American Cancer Society, Stephanie Borchardt provides administrative support for children's health and is your best first contact for general information and questions.