In November of last year, SCHF was thrilled to announce the appointment of our new Chief Executive Officer, Kristina Keneally. We asked her a few quick-fire questions so you can get to know more about her and her vision for the future of the Foundation.

Hi Kristina! Tells us, why SCHF?

I began my career in the for-purpose sector at the Society of St Vincent de Paul. I am purpose-driven and believe we should do what we can to leave the world a better place and care for the most vulnerable in our community. SCHF’s mission and purpose to ensure every child has the best possible health care and to go all in for kids’ health strikes a strong chord in me. I am especially excited – and humbled – to work directly with our wonderful donors, staff, volunteers, clinicians, and supporters.  

You’ve now been at SCHF for a couple of months, what were your initial impressions?

It’s been lovely to see first-hand the direct impact we can have on the lives of sick kids, their families, and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network staff that we support. I joined the Foundation as we launched our annual Light Up Xmas Appeal and had our first in-person Donor Recognition Event since 2019.

During that time, and even prior to my appointment, the idea of SCHF donors as a Movement of Many really resonated with me.

The idea that we come from different places, different jobs, different families – but when we come together with a single purpose, we can achieve almost anything.

What do you see as the Foundation’s biggest priorities over the coming 12 months?

Over the next 12 months, I am looking forward to working with our staff, donors, clinicians, and volunteers to determine how philanthropy can help solve some of the biggest current and future challenges to kids’ health.  

It is such a privilege to work with and support the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network to provide children with the best possible medical care. SCHF donors and volunteers are amazing and passionate, and I know working with the them we can achieve even greater things for sick kids and their families in NSW and beyond.