Senior Chief Development Officer

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation (HMHF) has appointed Michelle Oster as the inaugural senior chief development officer, effective January 13, 2025. In this new role, Oster will lead and contribute to the vision, priorities, and strategy of all fundraising programs and will partner closely with HMHF and hospital leadership as the foundation significantly scales in advance of the largest comprehensive campaign in Houston Methodist history.

An accomplished and strategic advancement leader, Oster currently serves as the associate vice president and managing director for Wisconsin Medicine at the Wisconsin Foundation & Alumni Association (WFAA). As associate vice president, Oster serves on the senior leadership team that oversees a staff of 56 across medical development and provides leadership and vision for all aspects of Wisconsin Medicine development. During her tenure at Wisconsin, Oster has contributed to elevating and enhancing development programs through the implementation of training and mentorship programs, streamlining processes, and strategic reorganization. Oster led efforts for a $500 million comprehensive medical campaign and is collaborating closely with the dean of the UW School of Medicine, the CEO of UW Health, and WFAA colleagues. 

Oster holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Rachel Ellenport and Grace Zakim led this search with Bryce Ervin and Lisa Clayton.