2026 Nonprofit + Corporate Citizenship Symposium & Awards: BUSINESS ANGEL OF THE YEAR HONOREE

Why It Matters

Jagels’ model shows how corporate‑philanthropy can deliver measurable health outcomes, setting a benchmark for executive‑level nonprofit partnerships. It signals that sustained, strategic investments are becoming essential for advancing large‑scale cancer research and patient support.

Key Takeaways

• Jagels raised over $1 million for American Cancer Society.
• Leads UCLA Health’s $805k ACS partnership, largest outside Hope Lodge.
• Chairs Trailblazers in Cancer Summit, prioritizing health equity.
• Serves on ACS Los Angeles Board and CEOs Against Cancer.
• Named 2026 Business Angel of the Year honoree.

Pulse Analysis

Corporate philanthropy has evolved from occasional donations to strategic alliances that drive measurable outcomes for both businesses and nonprofits. In the healthcare arena, executives who act as "business angels" leverage their industry expertise, networks, and capital to amplify mission-driven impact. This shift reflects a broader trend toward integrated corporate citizenship, where social responsibility is embedded in core strategy rather than treated as a peripheral activity. As investors and consumers increasingly demand tangible results, leaders who can align profit motives with public health goals are gaining prominence.

Barbara Jagels exemplifies that model through her role as executive director of cancer services at UCLA Health. She has mobilized more than $1 million in donations for the American Cancer Society and secured an $805,000 multi‑year partnership—the largest health‑system contribution to ACS outside the Hope Lodge program. Beyond funding, Jagels chairs the Trailblazers in Cancer Summit, positioning health equity at the forefront of the agenda, and serves on the ACS Los Angeles Board and CEOs Against Cancer, ensuring strategic alignment between corporate resources and nonprofit objectives.

The recognition of Jagels as the 2026 Business Angel of the Year underscores the growing value placed on measurable, partnership‑driven philanthropy. Her approach demonstrates how health systems can leverage capital and expertise to strengthen research pipelines, expand patient support services, and influence policy advocacy. For other corporate leaders, replicating this model means committing to long‑term, outcome‑focused collaborations rather than one‑off grants. As the nonprofit sector continues to seek sustainable funding sources, executives who embed social impact into their corporate DNA will likely shape the next wave of responsible business growth.