Michele Pignatello is chief development officer and vice president, Development and Communications at Kessler Foundation, where she leads philanthropic strategy and communications in support of the Foundation’s innovative rehabilitation research. She is responsible for securing philanthropic investment by cultivating meaningful relationships and building strategic partnerships that advance the Foundation’s mission and scientific contributions.

In addition to overseeing development, Michele directs the Foundation’s communications and research participant recruitment efforts, ensuring clear, consistent messaging and effective outreach to engage stakeholders and support study enrollment. With more than two decades of experience fostering philanthropic growth for mission‑driven organizations, she is deeply committed to creating sustainable initiatives that accelerate discovery and improve lives.

Before joining Kessler Foundation, Michele held senior leadership positions at Beth Israel Medical Center and St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals in Manhattan, as well as at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark. Her professional expertise spans donor and board relations, major gifts, annual giving, special events, and development operations. She brings a comprehensive background in fundraising, organizational growth, system design, and communications to her role.