Jacobson will lead strategic fundraising initiatives and donor stewardship efforts
Mar. 4, 2026 – Lee Health Foundation has welcomed Brenda Jacobson, MA, CFRE, as System Director of Central Development, bringing nearly three decades of fundraising leadership and strategic development experience to the Foundation’s growing team.
Jacobson joins Lee Health Foundation with 28+ years of expertise in philanthropy, including strategic planning, annual and planned giving, employee giving campaigns, grateful patient programs, major gifts, grant writing and comprehensive donor stewardship. She most recently served as Director of Foundation Operations at CentraCare Foundation, where she played a key role in strengthening fundraising infrastructure and advancing mission-driven initiatives.
As System Director of Central Development, Jacobson will be responsible for strategic planning and implementation of planned giving, annual giving, grants and event-based fundraising, as well as grateful patient and donor stewardship activities. Her position will support long-term planning to advance Lee Health’s mission of delivering exceptional care to Southwest Florida.
“Brenda brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge, operational excellence and passion for philanthropy to our organization,” said Chris Simoneau, chief development, marketing and communications officer for Lee Health. “Her experience building and scaling development programs will help strengthen our fundraising strategies and deepen our relationships with donors who make exceptional healthcare possible in our community.”
Jacobson holds a master’s degree in Philanthropy and Development from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and has maintained her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential since 2018. She currently serves as a 2026 CFRE Ambassador, supporting professional excellence and leadership development within the fundraising field.
Her appointment reflects Lee Health Foundation’s continued investment in strategic philanthropy, operational excellence and community partnerships that ensure access to high-quality healthcare across Southwest Florida. To learn more about philanthropy at Lee Health, visit LeeHealthFoundation.org.
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.
