The Staff
Elaine C. Thompson, PhD, FACHE Executive Director
Dr. Thompson joined Lakeland Regional Medical Center as president and CEO in September 2010. Since taking the helm of LRMC she has led a journey to validate the system’s quality strategy by creating an organizational structure centered on quality, performance improvement, and patient safety through better alignment with our clinicians. In addition, Dr. Thompson is also serving as the Executive Director of the LRMC Foundation.
Holly L. Parrish, CFRE, MPA
Director of Philanthropy
Holly joined the Foundation staff in 2002 and directs the Foundation’s Major Gifts and Planned Giving Program including bequests, trusts and charitable gift annuities as well as estate planning educational opportunities for both the professional and layperson. Holly earned her B.A. in Mass Communication and Religion from Florida Southern College and her M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration) from the University of South Florida.
Paula Higgins, CFRE
Director of Philanthropy
Paula joined the LRMC Foundation staff in 2007. Paula oversees the Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy program as well as corporate and foundation giving. Paula received her B.S. from Georgia Southern University and has been involved in healthcare fundraising since 2001.
Jennifer Garrard Manager of Philanthropy
Julia DiSpada
Development Assistant
Julia has been with the Foundation since 1996. She provides administrative support to the Executive Director and staff. She also gives a helping hand wherever needed – events, mailings, seminars, etc. Julia is a graduate of the Katharine Gibbs School of Business and attended Baruch College and Brookdale Community College.
