2005 – Phoenix, Arizona
Laura R. Grafman cares deeply about people. In fact, you could say her middle name is “Passion.” That’s how strongly she believes in the work she does, both professionally and philanthropically. Laura began her career in higher education as an admissions counselor, which catapulted her to her next career as the director of student financial assistance at National Louis University in Evanston, Illinois. During her 11 years in that position she managed a multimillion dollar student aid program on two of the university’s campuses, in Evanston and Chicago. She was recognized by the Office of Education for excellence in the administration of these programs. Currently, Laura is the Executive Vice President of Scottsdale Healthcare Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Scottsdale Healthcare, a three campus community hospital system. This past summer, the foundation surpassed the $100 million mark in funds raised. Laura began her association with Scottsdale Healthcare as a volunteer, and later became hospital auxiliary president, leading to her employment with the hospital’s fund development staff. One of her proudest accomplishments says the Chicago native, was to serve as the point person on the team that raised $33 million to build and endow the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare. Laura continues to be a passionate advocate for cancer patients and their families. Laura’s combination of professional and philanthropic careers allows her the privilege of serving as a Lifetime Trustee of The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust and awarding grants. Laura considers her greatest achievement to be her wonderful family. She and her husband, Dayton, have been happily married for 55 years. Dayton is an accomplished pianist and a Steinway Concert Artist. Their daughter, Lynn, has her own public relations business in Scottsdale.
