Today, we’re spotlighting someone who truly bridges worlds: medicine, philanthropy, and system-level change. Dr. Katherine Pui is not only a practicing medical doctor, but she’s also a seasoned fundraising leader with a long track record of advancing healthcare innovation, research, and patient care. Her work connects clinicians, donors, and communities with purpose, translating complex medical priorities into meaningful investment and impact.
From caring for patients to shaping advancement strategies that strengthen the future of health systems, Dr. Pui brings a perspective that is both deeply human and strategically visionary.
We’re thrilled to feature her in this edition of 7 Questions for a Changemaker.
- Who are you, and what do you actually do? My name is Katherine Pui. I’m a medical doctor and a healthcare fundraising executive at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. As the Associate Vice President, Philanthropy of the organization, I have the pleasure of leading three critical pillars: Major Gifts & Transformational Giving, Gift & Estate Planning, and Philanthropy Administration Operations. I am accountable for 70% of the organization's annual fundraising revenue.
- What pulled you into the nonprofit world? When I first became acquainted with the philanthropic world as a practicing physician, I realized the beauty of the work and the diverse aspects of donors/patients, and their families that I hadn’t seen as a practitioner. That initial involvement meant a great deal to me, which is what attracted me to this industry.
- Tell me about a moment that made you think, “Yes. This is why I do this.” As a physician and as someone who had seen the healthcare system benefitting from philanthropy firsthand, it was a no-brainer. I can see the translation of philanthropic investments into the healthcare system, and how the funding is immediately put to work to advance patient care and outcomes through research, new equipment, education, and infrastructure. I have the privilege of experiencing that feeling every day by working with generous donors who genuinely want to do good and make a positive impact, which is so inspiring for me.
- What’s something about working in nonprofits most people don’t understand There are numerous sophisticated methodologies and strategies that go into the work. What you see is only a small percentage of the work that goes on behind the scenes! In addition, we greatly care about people and relationships- the people we work with and the beneficiaries of the cause.
- What’s one thing you wish more fundraisers or hiring managers knew? Relevant transferable skills and experiences are highly valuable within this industry, as they bring a fresh perspective to the field. This also helps address the highly competitive market in the nonprofit sector. Therefore, having an open and coaching mindset in talent acquisition is key to an organization’s success. I've recruited people with no direct fundraising experience. Through vigorous and proper coaching, they have thrived and excelled in this industry.
- What’s a small, underrated habit that’s helped your career? Continuously exercising my ‘curiosity’ muscle for all things, and finding ways to drive efficiencies.
- Finish this sentence: “The future of fundraising is…” The Future of fundraising is bright, and it’s already here! With the advancements in technology + AI , and thoughtful relationship cultivation, the opportunity to engage the communities around a cause has great potential moving forward.