Mitchell will lead Lee Health Foundation’s planned giving program
Feb. 18, 2026 – Lee Health Foundation has welcomed Julie Mitchell as Senior Director of Development for Planned Giving, bringing decades of experience in major gifts, planned giving strategy, and donor engagement to the Foundation’s growing development team.
Mitchell joins Lee Health Foundation from Stanford University, where she most recently served as a major gift officer for Stanford Law in their Office of External Relations. Her career also includes leadership roles at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and her alma mater, the University of Delaware, where she led the Reunion and Leadership Annual Giving programs. She is also familiar with Southwest Florida, having previously worked with Ave Maria and Avow Hospice in Naples.
In her new role, Mitchell will oversee Lee Health Foundation’s planned giving program, including expanding its network of professional advisors; advancing planned giving messaging and donor education; supporting staff education on legacy giving vehicles; stewarding existing Legacy Society members; and managing a personal portfolio of planned giving prospects.
“Julie’s depth of experience and passion for mission-driven philanthropy will significantly strengthen our planned giving efforts,” said Chris Simoneau, chief development, marketing and communications officer for Lee Health. “Her leadership will help ensure our donors’ legacies continue to support exceptional care for generations to come.”
Mitchell’s appointment reflects Lee Health Foundation’s continued investment in long-term, sustainable philanthropy that advances the health and well-being of the Southwest Florida community.
About Lee Health Foundation
Lee Health Foundation raises philanthropic support on behalf of community-focused nonprofit Lee Health to establish, expand, and enhance lifesaving and preventive programs in Southwest Florida. Contributions to the Foundation benefit all five Lee Health hospitals and specialty services. In the past year, the Foundation provided $34+ million in funding to enhance patient care throughout the region. Please visit LeeHealthFoundation.org for more information about the role of Lee Health philanthropy in Southwest Florida.
