Kayla Scalf, MBA

Kayla Scalf, MBA, is a nonprofit development and fundraising professional dedicated to improving the lives of children and families through philanthropy, advocacy, and community engagement. As Director of Development at Sawyer's Wish, she leads donor relations, sponsorship development, marketing, and social media initiatives that support the organization's mission of providing colorful, character-themed bed sheets and comfort items to hospitalized children. Her passion for helping others and creating meaningful impact has been the driving force behind her career in the nonprofit sector.

Before joining Sawyer's Wish, Kayla spent more than six years with Akron Children's Hospital Foundation, where she advanced through several roles including Gift Processor, Donor Relations Coordinator, Corporate Engagement Coordinator, and Associate Corporate Alliance Officer. In these positions, she developed expertise in donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, employee giving programs, event sponsorships, volunteer engagement, and cause-related marketing. Her ability to cultivate strong relationships and create mutually beneficial partnerships helped strengthen fundraising efforts and community support for pediatric healthcare initiatives.

Kayla's professional journey began in the financial services industry, where she worked as a financial consultant and earned her Ohio life insurance license. She later transitioned into nonprofit work to pursue her passion for service and community impact. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Public Relations from Kent State University and an MBA with a concentration in Public Administration from Columbia Southern University. Combining strategic business knowledge with a mission-driven mindset, Kayla continues to champion innovative fundraising initiatives and programs that bring comfort, hope, and healing to children facing serious medical challenges.