After 13 years on the Board of Canberra Hospital Foundation, the last 12 of those as Chairperson, Deborah (Debbie) Rolfe AM is retiring from the role and will be replaced by incumbent Deputy Chair, Susan Proctor.
Acknowledging Debbie’s valuable contributions and service, CHF said in a statement that the well-known Canberra philanthropist “has been a dedicated and influential board member since 2010, serving as Chairperson since 2011, a remarkable term of service”.
“Thirteen years ago, I embarked on one of the most rewarding chapters of my professional life,” Debbie said.
“Since 2010, the CHF Board has been a part of my routine and a pivotal part of my heart and soul. The opportunity to serve and contribute to the health and well-being of our community has been a privilege beyond measure,” she said.
In the media statement, CHF explained its mission is to support specialised equipment, vital research, refurbishments to away-from-bed spaces, and therapeutic wellbeing programs. “Additionally, CHF plays a crucial role in distributing comfort items crafted with love by the generous Canberra community to patients and their families.
“Debbie’s leadership and commitment have significantly contributed to CHF’s success in growing impact in line with our mission and helping to raise funds to enhance the hospital experience for patients and their loved ones in the Canberra region,” the statement continued.
“Debbie’s tireless dedication to philanthropy, alongside her husband, Richard Rolfe AM, has been a cornerstone of their contributions to the Canberra community. The Rolfes have supported a wide range of causes, including medical, social welfare, and charitable foundations. They have both been recognised with the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for their significant service to the community.
“As a healthcare charity, CHF understands the significance of philanthropic contributions.
“We are proud to partner with supporters like Debbie and Richard Rolfe, who wish to extend their gratitude and support for the exceptional care that our public healthcare system provides to the community. Whether through financial contributions, gifts in kind, sharing personal stories, fundraising efforts, or making philanthropic gifts, each expression of support from within our community contributes to our shared vision of creating exceptional healthcare together.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Susan Proctor as the incoming Chairperson of the CHF Board. Susan has served on the CHF Board since 2017 and has served as our Deputy Chair over the past year.
“Susan is an esteemed commercial lawyer with over 20 years’ experience and a skilled Board Director, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a robust commitment to community service, with a distinguished career serving on numerous private and public boards. As Board member and recently Deputy Chair of CHF, Susan has been an integral part of the board, demonstrating dedication and expertise,” the statement said.
“The CHF Board and team expresses our deepest gratitude for Debbie’s immense contribution and wishes her well in her future endeavours.
“We eagerly anticipate working with Susan and building upon the foundation laid by Debbie, ensuring the continued success and growth of the Foundation’s impact under Susan’s capable leadership. Our commitment to enhancing the hospital experience for patients and their families remains unwavering.”
“I’d like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Debbie for her outstanding service,” said CHF CEO Helen Falla. “Ït has been a great privilege working alongside her over the past eight years.
“I look forward to working with Susan in her new position as she assumes this important leadership role as Chair of our Board.”
