When Elizabeth Saavedra joined Ronald McDonald House New York (RMH‑NY) in 2022 as Chief Digital Growth Officer, she brought a bold vision: to harness the power of technology to strengthen compassion. In just a short time, that vision has transformed how RMH‑NY connects with supporters, families, and the broader community—delivering measurable impact and redefining what digital transformation looks like in the nonprofit sector.
Today, RMH‑NY proudly recognizes Saavedra’s leadership and her recent industry distinction: being named to Crain’s New York Business’ Notable Leaders in Health Care Technology 2025 list, an honor that underscores her work at the intersection of digital innovation and family‑centred care.
Driving Growth Through Digital Innovation
Under Saavedra’s leadership, RMH‑NY’s digital and direct response programs have reached record‑breaking success. By combining data‑driven strategy with heart‑centered storytelling, she’s ensured that every digital interaction reflects the organization’s commitment to compassionate care and family‑centred support.
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Digital revenue exceeded budget by 52%, marking one of the strongest years of online giving in RMH‑NY history.
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Direct mail fundraising out‑performed goals by 18%, fueled by integrated, personalized campaigns that connected donors more closely to the mission.
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Operational costs were reduced by 31%, allowing more funds to go directly toward supporting families facing pediatric cancer and other life‑threatening illnesses.
Each of these achievements represents more than numbers—they reflect real outcomes for the more than 1,000 families RMH‑NY serves each year. Families who are fighting some of life’s hardest battles now experience more seamless communication, faster access to resources, and a deeper sense of belonging because of the systems and strategies Saavedra helped build.
Technology in Service of Compassion
What sets Saavedra apart is her belief that technology should amplify empathy, not replace it. Her approach to digital transformation focuses on people first—designing experiences that are intuitive, inclusive, and rooted in RMH‑NY’s mission of compassionate care, emotional support, and holistic family services.
From streamlined donor journeys to modernised communication systems, Saavedra has turned digital infrastructure into a bridge of care; one that connects every click, call and contribution back to the families who need it most. Her leadership has created a sustainable model of growth that reflects RMH‑NY’s ongoing commitment to health equity, healthcare innovations, and addressing the social determinants of health that influence family well‑being.
Recognised for Leadership in Health Care Technology
In 2025, Saavedra joined the ranks of distinguished professionals honoured by Crain’s New York Business in its Notable Leaders in Health Care Technology feature—a list that recognises senior‑level executives who integrate technology with health services and improve patient care through innovation.
The inclusion in this list not only celebrates Saavedra’s achievements in the digital fundraising space, but also highlights RMH‑NY’s broader mission of advancing family‑centred care and health equity through cutting‑edge digital solutions. By earning a place on this list, Saavedra has helped position RMH‑NY as a leader among nonprofits in leveraging technology to strengthen mission delivery and deepen impact.
A Future Built on Connection
Saavedra’s work has helped RMH‑NY strengthen the very connections that make the House a home—from donors and volunteers to families and hospital partners like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. By embracing innovation and creativity, she’s ensuring that RMH‑NY remains at the forefront of care, community, and communication for years to come.
Her leadership reminds us that behind every digital milestone is a deeply human story—a story of families who can stay close to their children during treatment, find moments of peace amid uncertainty, and experience hope through the kindness of others.
Celebrating Purpose‑Driven Progress
Elizabeth Saavedra’s recognition reflects more than professional success; it represents the power of aligning technology with empathy. At Ronald McDonald House New York, her work continues to drive the mission forward—helping families stay together, donors feel connected, and the organization grow stronger through every pixel and every act of care.
About Ronald McDonald House New York
Ronald McDonald House New York provides temporary housing, compassionate care, and comprehensive support to families with children battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses. Located on East 73rd Street in Manhattan, the House partners with leading hospitals like Memorial Sloan Kettering and NewYork-Presbyterian to ensure that every family—no matter their background—has access to comfort, community, and care during their child’s medical journey.
