Delphine Haslé, AFP's Outstanding Fundraising Professional of the Year
We are proud to share that Delphine Haslé, Executive Director and Chief Development Officer, Perley Health Foundation, has been named the recipient of the Association of Fundraising Professionals' (AFP) Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award. One of the highest honours in the philanthropic field, the award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional integrity and measurable impact in fundraising. This award from AFP not only highlights Delphine's incredible accomplishments as a leader in our organization, but also affirms Perley Health and the Perley Health Foundation's commitment to trust, transparency, and excellence in our shared mission.
Nominated by Melanie Adams, the Ottawa Hospital Foundation, and Akos Hoffer, CEO, Perley Health, Delphine is being recognized as a leader who has “completely transformed the culture and fundraising capability of the Foundation” since assuming her role in 2019.
Despite the immense challenges facing the long-term care sector in recent years, Delphine's vision and determination guided the Foundation to new heights. “The Perley Health Foundation exceeded every one of its fundraising records over the last several years," said Akos. "Thanks to Delphine's determination and commitment, annual contributions have more than doubled, and the Foundation successfully completed its largest ever capital campaign, raising $10 million to advance our care, research and knowledge translation capability.”
Akos also credited Delphine's success to her willingness to learn and collaborate with the Foundation Board, embracing their leadership and expertise to professionalize every aspect of the Foundation. “Some of this work was not glamourous,” he noted. “It involved looking at every process and ensuring it aligned with leading practice. It also meant being fearless and building relationships with new donors in a highly competitive space.” Under her leadership, the Foundation's Board evolved to include members with deep connections and capacity, strengthening Perley Health's ability to secure meaningful philanthropic partnerships.
Delphine's recognition by AFP places her among a distinguished group of fundraising leaders who have shaped the profession through innovation, integrity, and compassion. Her ability to combine professional excellence with authentic human connection stands out not only within Perley Health but also within the broader philanthropic community.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me because it reflects not just my work, but the collective impact of an extraordinary team of staff, volunteers, donors, and partners who believe in the mission of Perley Health," she says. "Every success we achieve is the result of your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life of seniors and Veterans. I am honoured to share this award with all of you, it belongs as much to this community as it does to me.”
The Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award is a testament to Delphine's leadership, her unwavering commitment to Perley Health's mission, and her belief in the power of generosity to transform lives.
Delphine will be formally presented with the award in November, so keep an eye on Perley Health's social media channels as we share photos and a recap of the ceremony!
From all of us at Perley Health and the Perley Health Foundation, congratulations, Delphine, on this remarkable and well-deserved achievement.
Delphine is a leader who has completely transformed the culture and fundraising capability of the Foundation. Under her leadership the Perley Health Foundation has exceeded every one of its fundraising records over the last several years.