PULLMAN, WA — Pullman Regional Hospital Foundation has welcomed Kari Sampson as its new Development Officer. Sampson joined the Foundation in August, bringing more than 20 years of experience at Washington State University in recruitment, student success, retention, coaching and philanthropy.
Most recently, Sampson served as Director of Development for WSU’s College of Education, Sport, and Human Sciences, working with alumni, donors and community partners.
For Sampson, joining Pullman Regional Hospital is also a deeply personal connection to the community she has called home for 22 years. Her daughter, Faith, received care at Pullman Regional Hospital as a child, an experience that left a lasting impression on the Sampson family.
“Pullman Regional has been a part of our family's story and I have experienced firsthand what it means to have extraordinary care at our community hospital," Sampson said. "I am incredibly grateful for the ways my daughter and our family were supported during a very difficult time. We felt an extension of professional and personalized care from the moment we entered PRH and eventually returned home. That extension of care has continued and amplified over the years. Pullman Regional is filled with skilled and caring professionals. The opportunity to advocate and serve on behalf of this organization is an honor and a privilege.”
For Sampson’s daughter, now a pre-med sophomore, the experience helped inspire her decision to pursue a career in medicine as a rheumatologist. “So much of her motivation in doing so is rooted in the care and ongoing support she has received from so many at Pullman Regional Hospital – doctors, nurses, staff, and volunteers alike. She hopes to pay that forward in her future career,” says Sampson.
Sampson believes one of the most rewarding parts of philanthropy is connecting generous people with opportunities to make a lasting difference.
"I've always enjoyed connecting with people," she said. "The ability to do so in a professional manner, helping identify where personal passions align with our community needs in healthcare, is icing on the cake! There are so many people in our community who want to make a difference. I am honored to help connect their generosity with the needs and opportunities that will strengthen healthcare for our region."
In her new role, Sampson will help cultivate and strengthen relationships with colleagues, donors and community members while connecting philanthropic support with opportunities that advance Pullman Regional Hospital’s mission of improving lives through exceptional healthcare.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kari to the Pullman Regional Hospital Foundation,” said Linda Infranco, Executive Director for the Foundation. “Her extensive experience, genuine and authentic character and her local connections are an incredible asset as we continue to grow awareness for philanthropic support for our amazing hospital and healthcare system.”
A first-generation University of Washington graduate and former collegiate golfer, Sampson is a lifelong champion of education and community. She is excited to continue serving the Palouse through Pullman Regional Hospital.
Sampson’s office is located in the hospital’s administrative offices at Corporate Pointe, across the street from Pullman Regional Hospital.
Outside of work, Sampson enjoys planning her next adventure, searching for sunshine and a beach, and spending time on the golf course with her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Faith.
Learn more about the Pullman Regional Hospital Foundation.
Media Contact
Alison Weigley, Director of Strategic Planning & Business Development
Public Information Officer
Pullman Regional Hospital
Office: (509) 332-2041 / Cell: (509) 330-0242
alison.weigley@pullmanregional.org