TU alum named AFP Maryland Chapter 2021 Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year

October 5, 2021

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Maryland Chapter, a leading advocate for fundraising and philanthropic issues in the state, has recognized Fran Soistman Jr. ’79,  (hon.) ‘16 as the 2021 Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year. 

Soistman is the founder, president and CEO of Healthcare Management & Transformation Advisory Services LLC and, starting Nov. 1, will be CEO of eHealth, an online insurance broker. 

With a recent $5.4 million gift to TU—the largest from an alumnus/a school history—Soistman, a nationally recognized expert and top executive in the health care management sector, has continued to demonstrate his boundless affection for his alma mater. Soistman has supported many projects and initiatives across the university with more than $6.1 million since making his first gift to TU in the late 1980s.

Soistman has counseled TU leaders on numerous boards and committees, including the Board of Visitors, and currently serves as a co-chair of TU’s $100 million RISE Campaign. From creating scholarships and a faculty support fund to supporting capital projects in athletics and the College of Health Professions to creating a diversity initiatives fund, his giving enriches every area of the TU experience.

"Fran Soistman is a remarkable leader in all aspects of his life. His generosity continues to provide important resources to the university that advance academic excellence," TU President Kim Schatzel said. “With his historic gift in 2020, Fran has added to his lifelong legacy of philanthropy in support of his alma mater. His gift and leadership ensure that the university continues to provide a world-class education to its students and resources to our faculty and staff to support outstanding research, teaching, and student success. I am proud to call Fran a dear colleague and a staunch advocate for TU.” 

Soistman supports numerous Maryland nonprofits, including the Connelly School of the Holy Child, the University System of Maryland Foundation, the Babe Ruth Birthplace Foundation and the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless. 

For almost 30 years, AFP’s Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year award has recognized individuals whose giving and leadership philanthropy has had a significant impact on nonprofit organizations in Maryland. These individuals exemplify the true spirit of philanthropy, giving their time, talent and treasure to build a stronger community. 

Soistman will be honored during the National Philanthropy Day celebration, held virtually on Thursday, Nov. 18. To learn more about AFP Maryland’s National Philanthropy Day event, register or become a sponsor, visit their website.