Riley Children’s Foundation President and CEO Announces Plans to Retire
Elizabeth A. Elkas, president and CEO of Riley Children’s Foundation, announced that she will retire at the end of the year.
Elkas joined Riley Children’s Foundation in 2019 after a distinguished career leading fundraising at Indiana University School of Medicine. During her tenure at Riley Children’s Foundation, she has overseen three of the four most successful fundraising years in the foundation’s history. In the fiscal year that ended on June 30, the foundation raised more than $74 million – by far the highest amount ever and more than double what was raised annually prior to her arrival.
“Leading Riley Children’s Foundation has been an extraordinary privilege,” Elkas said. “As a mother and now grandmother myself, I know there is nothing more important or precious than our children’s health. I’m humbled by the thought that the money we raise can be used to help a child with asthma breathe easier, buoy a researcher working to conquer childhood cancer, or support a teen who is struggling with depression.”
“Our success – and our ability to help more children – is due to many people,” Elkas added. “I am grateful to our generous donors, Riley Children’s Foundation board members, and my colleagues at the foundation and Riley Children’s Health for their support and partnership.”
Riley Children’s Foundation Board Chair J. Murray Clark thanked Elkas for her leadership. He noted that she brought extensive experience in major gift fundraising to the role and has positioned the foundation for continued growth through her mentorship and vision.
“The timing of Liz’s retirement, against the backdrop of Riley’s 100th anniversary, is especially meaningful,” Clark said. “She is extremely proud of the role Riley Children’s Foundation played in establishing Riley Hospital and sustaining it for the past 100 years. In many ways, it’s fitting that she’s retiring at the close of Riley’s centennial year after helping pave the way for a second century of unrivaled care for kids.”
Clark said the foundation’s Board of Governors will begin searching for a successor and noted that Elkas’ decision to remain in her role through the end of 2024 will allow for a smooth transition.