Jessica Ritchie, President of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, joins Grit & Gravitas for a conversation about leadership, healthcare philanthropy, and why “be nice” might be one of the most underrated leadership strategies.

A self-proclaimed G&G super fan, Jessica has been with the Foundation since 2014, helping lead its work through growth, change, and evolving community needs. In this episode, she shares how the Foundation supports more than 100 funds across strategic priorities, including farm-to-hospital programs, indigent patient needs, street medicine, food insecurity, and workforce development.

Jessica also discusses the Women’s Mobile Health Vehicle Powered by Universal Media, supported by Don and Annie Young and connected to the Women for Wellness committee. The mobile vehicle brings basic primary care directly to communities, making healthcare more accessible for women and families across Central Pennsylvania. 

Throughout the conversation, Jessica offers practical business vitamins for women in leadership: know your numbers, understand the needs in front of you, listen well, be kind, and do what you say you’re going to do.

Her advice to younger women? Don’t wait to show your value. Step up to the plate. Walk in and remind yourself: this is my show. Learn more at UPMCpinnaclefoundation.org.