NYC Gazette

Gilli has taken on a role at St. Mary’s that extends beyond the traditional duties of overseeing fundraising efforts. Her work focuses on creating meaningful connections and empowering the community to shape the future of their local hospital. This involves bridging the gap between donors and patients and ensuring every donation, partnership, and event contributes significantly to the hospital's growth and the care it provides.

Colleagues describe Gilli as someone who understands the hospital's needs deeply and is passionate about its mission. Born in Johnstown, she holds a Master of Business Administration degree. Initially planning to enter the entertainment industry in a big city, her path changed when a childhood friend was severely injured in a car accident. This event prompted her to reassess her life's purpose, leading her to work at Liberty ARC in Amsterdam as their stewardship and development manager.

“I realized the many ways I’ve been so fortunate, including where I’d grown up,” Gilli reflects. “I had decided to anchor myself here in this region, to do what I could to make this a better place for all of us.”

Gilli joined St. Mary’s as Executive Director of the Foundation with hopes of making an even greater impact. “After six months on the job, I couldn’t be happier with the decision I made,” she states. “The leadership team here is supportive and engaged, which is so important as we work to build a culture that values and promotes philanthropy.”

Her efforts focus on building strong partnerships based on trust for the benefit of both the hospital and its communities. The Foundation addresses various needs such as capital infrastructure, technology upgrades, program expansions, and financial assistance for patients.

St. Mary’s hosts two major fundraising events: an August Gala and an October Golf Classic. These events have historically supported urgent care services and career development for hospital staff.

“These events celebrate the spirit of giving,” says Gilli, “while they strengthen the connection between our hospital and the people we serve.” She acknowledges how vital community support from Fulton and Montgomery counties is for these initiatives.

“We can’t do all that we do without the help of our community,” she notes gratefully.

Her goal is for more residents in Fulton and Montgomery counties to feel fortunate having St. Mary’s nearby.

“We’re an independent hospital dedicated to providing excellent care close to where our patients live and work," Gilli asserts proudly.

For those interested in supporting St. Mary’s Healthcare initiatives, further information can be found at www.smha.org/foundation.