Gregory J. Weimer Named Chair and Jake Ploeger Named Vice Chair

/PRNewswire/ - UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation has appointed Gregory J. Weimer as chair of its Board of Trustees and Jake Ploeger as vice chair.

This leadership change opens a fresh phase for the Foundation after the strong results of This Moment: Put a Child's Future First. The success of the largest fundraising effort in UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh history allows the hospital to address shifting pediatric health care needs, speed up innovation and broaden possibilities for children and families.

"Greg and Jake bring strong energy, vision and commitment to their positions at a pivotal time for the Foundation," said Rachel Petrucelli, president of UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation. "Following the achievements of This Moment, we advance from a place of great strength while recognizing that health care is evolving quickly and patient needs are more pressing than ever. Their guidance will support growth, wider reach and continued excellence at UPMC Children's in Pittsburgh and globally."

Weimer established Confluence Financial Partners following a forty-year career in wealth management and financial services and now leads the firm as Chief Executive Officer. He began as a financial advisor in 1986 and later held senior roles at Butcher and Singer, CNL Securities Corporation and American Funds, where he served as senior vice president and board member. He holds a business degree from the University of Pittsburgh with focus areas in computer science and mathematics.

Weimer has supported UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation for many years. He sits on the boards of UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and the Foundation, previously acting as vice chair of the Foundation Board and Executive Committee. He also participates on the Finance and Investment and Nominating Committees and served on the This Moment Campaign Cabinet.

"It is a privilege to chair an organization that improves the lives of children and families daily," said Weimer. "Donor generosity and the commitment of volunteers, trustees and staff have made UPMC Children's a national leader in pediatric care. I am eager to advance our mission and back the innovations that will define the future of children's health."

Ploeger, now vice chair, serves as co-chief executive officer of PJ Dick - Trumbull - Lindy Group and oversees corporate planning and development. A dedicated supporter, he chaired the Walk for Children's committee for three years and continues to promote the Foundation's goals. He also serves on the boards of United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania and the Master Builders' Association and acts as trustee for the Laborers Combined Funds.

"The Foundation's work reaches every part of our community and beyond," said Ploeger. "I am proud to serve as vice chair and look forward to partnering with Greg, the Board and Foundation leaders to invest in pediatric medicine and ensure every child receives outstanding care."

The Foundation's Board of Trustees consists of 46 business, civic and community leaders who offer strategic direction and philanthropic support to the Foundation and UPMC Children's.

As the Foundation begins its next phase, Board leadership will emphasize sustained fundraising, stronger community ties and fresh ways to back the hospital's clinical care, research and program goals.

About UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation

UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation connects communities and donors to build healthier futures for children through advanced care and innovative research. As the only fundraising organization for UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, it advances the vision of world leadership in pediatric health care, education and discovery. The Foundation operates as a public charity under sections 501(c)(3) and 170(b)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Service Code.

About UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh leads regionally, nationally and globally in treating childhood conditions, developing new therapies and training future pediatric specialists. With community support since its founding in 1890, the hospital earns consistent recognition for clinical, research, education and advocacy work, including national rankings in all 11 pediatric specialties by U.S. News and World Report.

Contact: Andrea Yorchuck
Mobile: 412-552-7448
E-mail: ayorchuck@childrensfoundation.org

Contact: Mendy Nestor
Office: 412-692-3917
Mobile: 412-849-9470
E-mail: nestorm@upmc.edu

SOURCE UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation