Lara A. Kalafatis is the Chair of Cleveland Clinic’s Philanthropy Institute. In this role, she is responsible for all philanthropic initiatives across the enterprise for the Cleveland Clinic. From June 2014 to the end of 2021, Lara led “The Power of Every One,” $2 billion campaign, which exceeded expectations, raising nearly $2.6 billion. The philanthropy team encompasses all of Cleveland Clinic’s philanthropic operations. Lara is also a member of the Operations Council of Cleveland Clinic.
Previously, Lara was the Vice President of Development and University Relations at Case Western Reserve University. During her 16-year tenure at Case Western Reserve, she served as co-campaign manager of a $1.5 billion campaign, led major and special gift teams, donor relations and events. She directed the Alumni Relations Department, which created the Alumni Association and oversaw the re-branding of the University logo and re-design of communications.
Lara earned her bachelor’s degree in both Journalism and African American Studies at Indiana University in Bloomington.
Lara was a member of the 2021 Leadership Cleveland class. She’s also been listed in Crain’s Cleveland Business “Forty Under 40” list of professionals who’ve made an impact on Northeast Ohio’s business and civic communities.
