Maui Health’s Chief Philanthropy Officer Receives Women Who Mean Business Award: Maui Now

Maui Health’s Chief Philanthropy Officer, Melinda Sweany, has been recognized with the prestigious “Women Who Mean Business Award” by Pacific Business News (PBN). Sweany was honored for her exceptional leadership at the 2024 Women Who Mean Business Award Gala in Waikīkī, Oʻahu on March 28, 2024.

Among 30 outstanding women from Hawaiʻi acknowledged at the gala, Sweany stood out as one of the three exceptional women representing Maui. The Women Who Mean Business Award, now in its 26th year, celebrates women’s remarkable achievements across various industries, highlighting their impact on business and community leadership.

Maui Health CEO Lynn Fulton congratulated Sweany on the well-deserved recognition, praising her dedication and strategic leadership in driving the success of the Maui Health Foundation. With over 25 years of transformative leadership in healthcare and philanthropy, Sweany has consistently demonstrated her commitment to advancing the foundation’s mission.

Sweany’s innovative fundraising strategies have led to record-breaking achievements, including raising over $45 million in the past five years. She played a key role in securing 16 lots from the County of Maui to build homes for healthcare professionals, addressing housing shortages that have affected the recruitment of healthcare workers to Maui.

Additionally, Sweany provided immediate financial support and temporary housing for displaced workers following the August 2023 Maui wildfires, showcasing her dedication to supporting the well-being of Maui Health employees and providers.

“I am so proud and honored to serve our Maui community, help improve and expand healthcare services, and provide support to all healthcare workers,” said Sweany. Her leadership has made a significant philanthropic impact, benefiting the Maui community and healthcare industry.