Meet Jessica Williford: Advisory board member and champion for MUSC Children’s Hospital givin

From volunteer to passionate advocate for giving to the MUSC Children’s Hospital

This month, we shine the spotlight on Jessica Williford, chair of the nominations committee for the MUSC Children’s Hospital Fund Advisory Board. A longtime community leader and passionate advocate, Jessica’s path to the board blends professional experience with personal purpose.

Jessica has been investing in her community since moving to Charleston in 2010. While serving as vice president of corporate communications at South Carolina Federal Credit Union, she volunteered at the Cares for Kids Radiothon, a two-day Children’s Miracle Network fundraiser that supports partner hospitals like the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.

A partner in supporting healthier schools across South Carolina

Jessica’s connection to the children’s hospital deepened in her next role as director of Boeing Global Engagement, where she partnered with MUSC pediatrician Janice Key, M.D., and the MUSC Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness to support healthier schools across South Carolina.

She also helped bring the Boeing Outdoor Play Area to life – a colorful, healing space made possible by Boeing’s support during construction of the new children’s hospital.

In 2020, Jessica joined the advisory board. “Being able to support children’s health and wellness to improve access for all ages and backgrounds makes for a better community,” she said.

As a mother of two young boys, Jessica’s advocacy is personal. “Knowing a world-class institution is in our backyard helps me sleep better.”

A leadership role on the MUSC Children’s Health advisory board

Jessica stepped into the role of nominations committee chair to help shape the board’s future. “I enjoy working with fellow board members to identify individuals who support the children’s hospital and bring diverse experiences and expertise,” she said.

Under her leadership, the board is expanding both its skill set and geographic reach to better reflect the communities MUSC serves. Through her career, she has built an extensive statewide network – and she brings those connections to this work.

“My experience has connected me with leaders across South Carolina and given me insight into MUSC’s broad impact,” she explained.

Legacy of impact: How advisory board members like Jessica inspire children’s hospital donations

Jessica is energized by the passion of her fellow board members and inspired by the hospital’s care teams.

One area that’s especially moved her: the MUSC Darby Children’s Research Institute, the largest and most comprehensive pediatric research center in the Carolinas. It’s one of only 15 buildings in the country dedicated entirely to children’s research.

“The research and innovation happening there is truly amazing – there’s so much I wouldn’t know otherwise,” she said.

As the research arm of the MUSC Children’s Hospital, the institute helps bring new treatments to life, trains future pediatric specialists and ensures that children across South Carolina receive the most advanced care possible.

She also sees a future where fundraising efforts grow with the region.

“As our community grows, so does the need,” she said. “We’re focused on identifying new donors who are passionate about the hospital’s mission and giving to the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.”

When asked about her legacy, Jessica is clear. “I hope the board continues to diversify its membership while honoring the tremendous leaders who’ve built lasting impact.” Jessica leads with heart, vision and a deep understanding of community. We are grateful for her leadership – and for helping MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital grow, thrive and serve.