October 8, 2025 – Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation (NCHCF) is honored to announce the appointment of Rachel Azqueta as its chief operating officer (COO), a newly established position for the Foundation. Azqueta’s promotion showcases her dedication to the Foundation’s mission of advancing and enhancing health care for children.
Previously serving as the NCHCF’s chief development officer, Azqueta has been with the organization for 10 years, beginning her tenure as the director of communications and special events. Throughout this time, Azqueta has been instrumental in growing signature special events and launching new fundraising programs and marketing initiatives, including the Foundation’s Fore The Children annual publication and the Golden Cub Ambassadors Club to inspire and engage the next generation of philanthropists.
“Working with a small and close-knit team, Rachel’s dedication to philanthropy has had an invaluable impact on the success of the Foundation. Her promotion to COO is a natural and well-deserved next step,” said Patty McDonald, president and CEO at Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation. “I’m incredibly proud of what she’s accomplished and look forward to continuing our work together to carry forward the vision of Jack and Barbara Nicklaus.”
Jack and Barbara Nicklaus founded the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in 2004. The organization was created to provide families with world-class pediatric health care locally and globally. Celebrating its 21st year, the Foundation has raised more than $220 million to advance pediatric initiatives, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of childhood illnesses.
“I am truly honored to step into this new role,” said Rachel Azqueta. “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to continue to promote the legacy that Jack and Barbara Nicklaus created.”
