ALSAC/St. Jude
Posted by Insider  |  November 6, 2009 8:43:05 AM

I see a few comments concerning CEO pay and understand the frustration. If the truth was public about the ALSAC expenses, it was shock most if not all donors.

CEO pay
Posted by GDC  |  October 29, 2009 9:31:46 AM

I would like to mention as ONLY A FEW HAVE that the CEO pay mentioned is for the Fund Raising CEO, NOT the Dr/CEO running St Jude Research Hospital. I am conflicted whether I believe he is worth his pay, whereas I have no problem with the salary of the Hospital CEO. It's troubling for us where to use our money for the best good and I'll be seeking more information before we contribute again.

ceo
Posted by nik  |  October 19, 2009 6:08:27 AM

To all those concerned with CEOs comp,It's not easy finding someone that can run such an organization. The good ones are not cheap, and can probably make much more money in other fields. My kid was diagnosed with cancer a couple years ago and is doing well now, I dont know the future and hope for the best. I know that the protocal for his treatment came from St jude with no charges and no questions asked just free. I will always give to St Jude and I assure you they will always give back in ways that most people will never see. Before you give up on St jude consider how much some CEOs make and what have they accomplished for humanity

CEO salary
Posted by ceece  |  October 5, 2009 6:19:49 AM

You guys are insane if you think $400,000 is too much to make for this job. A computer programmer who only worries about one tiny part of one company can easliy pull in $100,000 a year and this is not even CLOSE to the level work someone running St Judes Research Hospital and Charities does. Get a grip!!! I'm signing up today to start donating to this place.

two stories ...
Posted by scientificmom  |  September 21, 2009 10:50:45 AM

I was at a St. Jude's dinner auction last night where the claim was that 85 cents on the dollar went directly to funding ... so which is it??

St. Jude Donation to Political Party
Posted by jessie sue  |  September 14, 2009 8:41:36 AM

It was St. Jude Medical. Not St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Completely different organization. I found this on a blog...

http://blog.politicalpartytime.org/category/republican-convention/

Target Corp. and Best Buy led the local pack, offering $3 million and $2.25 million respectively. US Bank gave $1.05 million and UnitedHealth Group gave $1.5 million. Others in the million-dollar club included Pentair Corp., St. Jude Medical, 3M Company and Travelers. Six other firms located outside Minnesota also tossed in more than a million dollars.

Children's Charities
Posted by meyer98@cox.net  |  September 2, 2009 1:02:11 PM

I'm surprised at the low rating of St. Jude's - but after looking at their overall rating I find that their Admin expenses are way out of line. I have decided that I will henceforth stop donating to St. Jude's and give to the Shriner's Hospitals instead. When and IF St. Jude's decides to bring it's Admin. expenses back into line I will again review their overall and decide from there. In this economy - that kind of salary to a CEO is so outrageous! Also, I find it disturbing that a Children's Research Center and Hospital would make political contributions no matter which party!

ceo
Posted by usa1946  |  August 28, 2009 8:05:35 AM

fact is that we are now getting to use only 69 cents on a dollar and that is NOT good

CEO Compensation
Posted by rjordan392  |  August 25, 2009 6:31:15 AM

The negative comments by those who are against the Ceo's salary are right on. I keep seeing words like Stress, Overworked, Talent and Responsiblity. Well reconcile that with the jobs performed by Police, Fire and other occupations that who make about $60,000 a year with overtime and other benefits. Stress? Overworked? Talent? Responsibility? The CEO's in this country don't know a damn thing about the above.

St. Jude's Donation to Political event
Posted by 48ss  |  August 13, 2009 8:16:30 AM

If I remember correctly I read an article describing corporate donations to a major political party prior to the 2008 national elections. Among the donors was St. Jude's Hospital with a donation of one million or more. Can anyone verify this? I have stopped St. Jude's giving as a result.

St Jude's Spending Habits
Posted by Zimm  |  July 19, 2009 6:13:10 PM

I have seen a friend's child go through the St. Jude's experience and can honestly say that if the CEO of the hospital, or the fundraising arm, is getting paid $400K per year, then St. Jude's is getting a great deal. I have never seen a facility that does so much from charity. It makes your heart feel good to see the Target house - a first rate condo for long term stays - that is as nice as a NYC 5-star hotel, but completely free. (And there are two of them.) Or, the Chili's center, or the half dozen other buildings donated that provide a level of comfort and full-family service that you simply don't get at other very good hospitals - based on my personal experience with several pediatric hospitals. If St. Jude's gets 2-stars here then either the ranking is worthless, or the 3 to 5 star charities are god-like in their mission. If the CEO has anything to do with getting the level of corporate sponsorship that place needs, pay him $5M a year - or a percentage of what he brings in. Lot of people would be happy to have the job for $100k per year. But only a few can do the job at this level, and he is under paid for the level of quality the organization exudes. Stop by, they welcome you, and you will never question your donation again.

CEO Compensation
Posted by sharing  |  July 14, 2009 1:35:52 PM

I have a hard time understanding why someone needs a salary of $418.8K? How can a person justify a income like that? Does the CEO donate his excess back? I'm sure he has a lot of responsibilities but he is only human. There are many of us who have many responsibilities but are compensated to this degree. I wish someone could give me a rationale explanation. I'm accustomed to salary ranges that are much more realistic. Just because he manages what he does by itself isn't enough of an explanation. How much does a human need to provide for his basic needs and business related dinner?

Re: Not a fan of St. Jude
Posted by IheartStJude  |  June 8, 2009 6:10:11 AM

Cancermom, I don't have the words to express how sorry I am that you know of children who have passed away from cancer. As an employee of the organization, however, I openly admit that yes, the hospital has to turn some children away. It is unfortunate, but because the patients's treatment is given at NO COST and the family's expenses are COMPLETELY covered, there is absolutely no possible way to accommodate everyone. And that is false we don't admit the fact that the child's diagnosis has to be something the hosptial is studying (which is wide array of cancers and other catastophic illnesses) and that the child needs their doctor's referral. The referral can be received, though, after the family calls the freely given out 1-800 referral line and touch base with the hospital on their own. I would like to apologize on behalf of whomever said the hospital was "not interested" in taking your friend's child. I have never heard of anything except the highest quality patient and potential patient care and service. Also, I'm heartbroken to hear the young boy has since passed away and wish the hospital could accommodate any and every child, but I hope you understand in some way that is just not feasible. Maybe you can take some solace knowing thousands of children from around the world and right in your back yard have been saved by the treatment given and research/protocols developed at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a place of HOPE.

CEO pay
Posted by gardog  |  June 4, 2009 5:50:16 AM

We can argue whether or not the CEO gets paid too much for a lot of charities. But let's get the facts straight first. Mr. Moses does not run St. Jude Hospital and its satellite locations, as one commenter suggests. He only runs ALSAC, the fundraising arm of St. Jude Hospital.

I am also disappointed in the drop to a two star charity, after donating for many years.

2 Star Rating
Posted by cmg  |  May 26, 2009 7:11:24 AM

It is a little upsetting to see the 2 STAR rating. When i began donating to this charity, it was a 4 STAR.

My suggestion would be to eliminate the mens' ties, etc. from your mailings. The dedicated donors will give w/out such frivolities. Also, the pre-stamped envelopes are not a real incentive for someone who is going to give anyway. i find the literature (paper is cheap) sent out w/ stories to be personal and an ideal way to keep givers focused.

The CEO salary is NOT too large. I have read many complaints in this comment section.

Finally, St. Jude's does superior research & has ideal patient surroundings. I am hopeful that their great rating will be restored w/ a little more discretion on the fundraising tactics. Gifts are okay to entice someone to join the St. Jude's family of givers; but they really, in my opinion, make no difference to those who are already giving. And, i don't mind applying my very own stamp to the envelope.

Thanks for the hard work and dedication the officers and all the staff show in working for this organization.

Not a fan of St Jude's
Posted by cancermom  |  April 30, 2009 6:06:02 AM

I use to support St.Jude's until my own daughter was diagnosed with cancer and I entered the world of childhood cancer, a thing I would not wish on my worst enemy. St. Jude's is a RESEARCH hospital therefore if your child does not fit into something that they are currently researching then they WILL turn children away. I know many children who died whose parents contacted St. Jude's for help but were turned away. Of course they do not advertise this or the fact that you must not have treatment started elsewhere to be eligible. I am not saying that they are not saving lives but they DO turn children away, it is just not for financial reasons but instead because they are "not interested in helping at this time" as my friend was told (I was sitting next to her and the phone was on speaker phone) when she called begging them to take her son after he relapsed. He has since died. I just want you all to know that if you really want to support childhood cancer research that will benefit ALL children with cancer then donate to CureSearch NOT St. Jude's

minor correction
Posted by jude  |  April 29, 2009 1:34:56 PM

rbtvance, You have posted a lot of valuable information. Just one minor correction -- Marlo Thomas is the daughter (not the sister) of Danny Thomas, the wonderful man who founded the St. Jude organization.

regarding st jude marketing
Posted by rbtvance  |  April 22, 2009 6:08:37 AM

Yes, St. Jude spends a lot of money on marketing. Not nearly as much as other organizations. But yes, I agree, that it could be annoying, for some, who donate to St. Jude once and then receive a donation solicitation letter every few months from St. Jude. And yes, even sometimes, a gift from St. Jude.

That said, before people go complaining about St. Jude's marketing, they need to understand a few things.

Most direct mail campaigns result in a 1-3% response that results in a minimal ROI (return on investment).

St. Jude, however, receives an average of about a 20% return on their direct mail solicitations. The average donation with each return is also about $20. That's impressive.

The reason they are soo successful with their mailings is because they're mailing people who are somehow already connected with the person they're soliciting. It could be that the person has donated once before; a good majority of their donations are reoccurring, which means annoying a few people with repeated mailings pays off. The other large contribution of donations from direct mail is through their one of their fundraising arms, like Up 'til Dawn, one of their college programs. UTD's main fundraising effort revolves around college students sending letters to family and friends asking them to donate to St. Jude - this model is very successful.

So, this said, yes, St. Jude spends lots of money on mailing you... but that's how they make a very large amount of their fundraising revenue.

people on here are clueless
Posted by rbtvance  |  April 21, 2009 10:33:40 AM

Ok, I want to also suggest that people stop complaining on here about St. Jude's CEO salaries. We thank you if you're a donor and we're sorry if you have an issue with what St. Jude pays it's CEO. But please stop complaining about it, because you're obviously clueless.

Half a million bucks doesn't even begin to compensate someone who is able to operate an organization this large. We're talking about an organization that operates on a a half billion dollar a year budget, has treated patients and trained physicians in over eighty different countries, operates the leading cancer research center in the world where many of the protocols and research other hospitals use was developed, etc.

The Chili's Care Center that recently opened, for example, has the only cyclotron in the world dedicated to producing tracers solely for understanding and developing treatments for catastrophic diseases. The equipment aids in the study of nuclear chemistry and nuclear medicine.

I honestly cannot believe that people who know absolutely nothing about St. Jude, other than the fact that they donated once before, or are thinking about donating, are going to get on here and complain about stuff they know absolutely nothing about.

For example, when the St. Jude Board of Governors meet quarterly, they all pay for their own air fare and hotels, etc. These are great people that work for St. Jude. They hardly receive the compensation they should, and even if they did, they'd probably largely donate it back. They already do tons of work for free and pay for tons of expenses out of their own pocket.

If it weren't for Danny Thomas (founder of St. Jude), his sister Marlo Thomas, the rest of the Thomas family, St. Jude staff, and Mr. Moses (St. Jude CEO)... cancer research and treatments would not have progressed in the fashion and rate that they have, nor would they continue to progress as such.

Please just lay off the - underpaid - CEO's case already!

St Jude Current Rating
Posted by Concerned Donor  |  April 7, 2009 9:01:11 AM

I am very disappointed in the huge drop in rating from Charity Navigator, although I shouldn't be suprised. I recently received a St Judes' plate in the mail. I contacted St Judes's and told them not to send this material to me again; it is a total waste of money and the funds can be better spent on research. With a two star rating, I am now wondering if my donation will really benefit the kids.

Do your research before sounding off.
Posted by poses  |  March 23, 2009 6:13:43 AM

I've been a lifelong donor and advocate for St. Jude, and the tone of this thread is appalling to me.

Are you people kidding me with this CEO compensation flap? $470,000 to run an organization the size of St. Jude is, if anything, not enough. Keep in mind that St. Jude is not just the hospital in Memphis, but 3 additional satellite hospitals, multiple overseas operations ranging from collaboration to clinic construction in developing nations, field offices in more than 30 cities across the country, AND that families at the hospital are never asked to pay. This man is not just running 1 hospital in Memphis, he's overseeing a worldwide network of research, fundraising and administrative staff.

Also, I'm not sure what "market" you're looking at, but St. Jude's CEO's compensation is exponentially lower than his counterparts at comparable charities and children's hospitals.

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia - CEO Steven M. Altschuler: $2,608,160

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute - CEO Edward Benz: $805,448

Children's Hospital Boston - CEO James Mandell: $1,400,000

American Cancer Society - CEO John Seffrin: $952,132

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - CEO John Moses: $471,209

All of these numbers can be found in the Forbes 200 Largest US Charities list.

So how about we put this inane conversation about a "bloated, fat-cat CEO" to bed for good, and instead focus on the life-saving work that St. Jude does every day.

employee who loves paying CEO's too much
Posted by jar631  |  March 20, 2009 9:10:28 AM

We love St Jude and the children too...that's why we give, but I'd rather see the workers be paid than a CEO paid TWICE what the market bears.

Are the employees paid TWICE what the market bears? If not, why should the CEO get twice when he/she is doing no more than other CEOs at similar children's hospitals? Think about it.

St.Jude, complaints
Posted by employee  |  March 18, 2009 6:02:50 AM

I personally work for ALSAC, and to tell the truth i am appalled at the amount of people who don't care, and to hear people complaining about how much the CEO is paid is ridiculous. Do they know how much it costs to run the hospital each day? nearly $1.4 million, so if you want to step up and do the job the CEO does for $100,000, be my guest, you just need to understand how much work and how much stress this is. Sorry, but I LOVE St. Jude, it is one of the best charities I have heard of and to do what they do, treating children regardless of their ability to pay is wonderful!!!

CEO salary
Posted by jar631  |  March 11, 2009 1:05:51 PM

If the CEO wants a salary equal to that available at a for-profit organization he/she shouldn't be working at a not-for-profit like St Jude. The fact is other similar children's hospital CEO's who do a great job are paif 1/2 of St Jude's CEO. Speaking of giving to the children, why doesn't the board of St Jude give $200k to the kids instead of to their crony CEO? Don't preach to us who give from our hearts. Try preaching to the big wigs at St Jude who live in a different world and think they are gods.

Ceo Salary
Posted by givemore  |  March 9, 2009 6:30:32 AM

All of you who are complaining about the CEO salary had better check the salary of the CEO at the bank were you keep your money. If they didn't pay their CEO's so much maybe you could get a higher interest rate, then you could give more to St. Jude!

CEO Salary - you are missing the point
Posted by pboy  |  March 1, 2009 10:50:12 PM

You folks who have a problem with the CEO salary are missing the point. Maybe the reason this charity is run so well (look at the numbers, 4 star rating,7.5% admin. expenses etc.) is because they have a decent CEO. Good CEO's cost money. Maybe you would be happier with the Realtor (see other comments) running the charity at $100,000 per year? Go check out Catholic Charities of Buffalo (another of my normal charities) - They have a CEO making $97,500 per year and have a one star rating and administrative expenses of 27%. - Not Good. Stop looking for stuff to complain about and don't stop giving to a great charity like this over such a foolish point. Its about the kids. And yes - I think the tie thing is bizarre - just got one today myself.

Marketing Material --> Waste of Donation Money
Posted by Wolf Wahn  |  February 27, 2009 6:48:21 AM

While people might discuss the compensation of the CEO, I am way more upset about the promotion material they send out to their donors. I've been supporting St. Jude for multiple years, but they are getting worse in the way they use the donations. Today I received a tie from them ... Is there any way to motivate St. Jude's to increase their efficiency on donations???

CEO Compensation Reasonable?
Posted by Dr_Sue  |  February 26, 2009 6:42:14 AM

Definitely. Why? This CEO is running a HUGE business. Yes, it's a non-profit, but it's also a first-class hospital. As with most things, you get what you pay for. And while several commenters here have said they'd do the CEO's job for $100,000 or $75,000, they seem to misunderstand that a talented CEO actually has specific skills/experience/connections-- QUALIFICATIONS. Yes, $20 million for a bank CEO as banks are tanking seems out of line. BUT, $400,000 for someone who's doing a good job serving needy kids and helping fund the cure for scores of childhood illnesses (Jude's led cures for about half of childhood cancers over the last thirty years)? Seems worth it to me. I lost my brother to cancer almost twenty years ago, and ever since I've started earning some $$$, I've been giving regularly to St. Jude's. I hope you will, too.

First-Hand Experience
Posted by MR. G  |  February 23, 2009 10:40:53 AM

As a St. Jude Family, we know firsthand how much ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital means to the world's future.

If you are concerned about a line item on a web site or financial statement contact someone at the foundation organization and look into it further, visit the hospital or see if there is a patient family that has volunteered to share their story.

Integrity and commitment to the mission of saving lives through leading edge research is the common thread of every employee at St. Jude. We have been involved with this organization for nearly ten years and every employee we have met is a world class talent looking to help and give to others.

We are glad to give to this charity. We also regularly experience the result of leadership that creates a consistent culture of integrity and unselfish caring for the future of the world.

mother's perspective
Posted by St. Jude mom  |  February 5, 2009 7:07:22 AM

The CEO's salary is such a small amount compaired to what it cost to run that hospital. My son is a St. Jude patient and I will for the rest of my life donate to St. Jude. We have never paid a penny for his treatment, the apartment we stayed in for a year, or our travel. Also St. Jude freely shares all of their research with hospitals around the world. Please be open minded about donating because these children do need your help. I honestly feel that the outcome would have not been the same had he been treated elsewhere. We need to find a cure for cancer, and St. Jude will be on the front lines.

2 Cents
Posted by Uncle Tom  |  February 2, 2009 6:48:54 AM

To all of you that think that the CEO’S Salary is too high, all I have to say is take a tour. I was on the weekend of the 18th to visit my niece and I’ve never seen a place like it. He oversees the best children’s hospital, a first class research center and what has to be a monstrous daily fund raising campaign. As a previous poster said the treatment is free, my sister’s and niece’s flight – free, lodging – free, transportation – free. I don’t think that $400,000 would help me stop worrying about the $1.4 million that it cost to run the place every day. If you were offered more money to do your current job but for a charity would really turn down the money and who knows what the CEO roll’s back in to Saint Judes. Just my 2 cents, which are going 2 Memphis.

St. Jude Soliciting
Posted by Old Owl  |  January 15, 2009 12:20:41 PM

I have donated to St. Jude for many years but became upset with their solicitation techniques. People have called for more money; automatic charge card payments; leaving securities or cash in my will to them; and receiving multiple mailings. I really became upset in 2008 when they sent a 50 page booklet with names (of people I don't know) who remembered St. Jude in their wills. What was the cost to print these worthless pamphlets and mail them out. Could a child of familiy have been served with this money? I tossed the booklet in the recycle bin. Now looking at the CEO's pay (we do not know his bonuses and other perks) makes me sick. I am sorry to say that St Jude lost a donor. I wonder what Danny Thomas would think of the bloated CEO's compensation?

Wish CEO pay was lower
Posted by Jedf  |  January 2, 2009 6:40:44 AM

Despite what people said about CEO compensation being necessary and not "that" much compared to the total funding, I still wasn't happy seeing that the CEO salary was so high.

I did more research and found CureSearch (http://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&orgid=4167) which looks great. Their program expenses are 95% of total budget and they get a slightly higher overall rating than St Judes.

So I voted with my checkbook and donated to CureSearch instead of St Judes.

CEO Salary
Posted by SuperSalary  |  December 29, 2008 6:33:34 AM

I just saw an ad on the tv requesting donations thus I wend to my computer to look further into this charity..... CEO's salary: $419,856... that is a weekly salary of $8,074. That spells unbelievable greed to me when so much more of what is donated could go into supporting more research to seek a cure and to purchase updated and new needed equipment rather than going into another overpaid CEO's pocket. To take advantage of the money that is being donated by people who make far, far less than $8,000 per wk., is mind boggling to know this kind of greed continue and seems to be growing in so many other CEO's worlds. People are beginning to take a BIG notice of the greed out there and sorrowfully, sick children and cures get to wait longer and longer for needed funds. CEO's are important and have a tremendous amount of responsibility but they have lost their real vision. The business world empowers them and they shamelessly agree to larger and larger salaries for themselves. How much is enough?

C.E.O. compensation
Posted by birdie  |  December 26, 2008 4:05:04 AM

Of course the CEO makes too much! We should contribute to local groups who truly use the money for needs....not for salaries.That's my song..and I'll continue to sing it!

CEO Pay and the Himalayan Cataract Project
Posted by DCZang  |  December 22, 2008 6:48:46 AM

I've given to St Jude's in the past, but discontinued because I didn't think I was getting the most 'Bang for my Buck'...I was disturbed by their expenses and CEO pay...Instead, I would ask you to investigate the Himalayan Cataract Project...This is such a steller charity, that does eye surgerys in areas of the world where blindness is tantamount to a death sentence. This charity also trains local Drs. and sets up local eye centers so sustainable eye care can be performed after they leave...I can't say enough good about the remarkable Dr. Sanduk Ruit who's 23 year effort has performed 70,000 eye surgeries (for free), sometimes doing as much as 100 surgeries a day...Where does the world find such grace?

WHY I HAVE BEEN DONATING TO ST JUDE SINCE 1997
Posted by MJ  |  December 22, 2008 6:38:53 AM

The reason I continue to donate is not only for the children but for all the advancements made by St. Jude's renowned physicians and researchers working to find a cure for all cancers! Donate what you can afford even if it is only $5.00 per month. Think about it if 1,000 extra people per year contributed only $5 per month the researchers at St. Jude would have an extra $60,000 per year to devote to research and this could make the difference in finding a cure.

Get over it...Dead on!
Posted by Kirby  |  December 16, 2008 1:13:21 PM

As a long-time resident of Memphis, TN, I have seen the work that St. Jude does firsthand. This is an amazing place. For those of you complaining about the CEO salary, you obviously do not understand business at all. If you look at the responsibility, as well as the funds that go through this organization, the CEO salary is such a small percentage that it is ridiculous for you to even comment on it. Simply because you work for a non-profit does not mean you should not be compensated. If he was working for a for profit corporation, his current pay wouldn't even be a sufficient bonus in today's world. If you don't want to give to St. Jude to help with the work they do, that speaks more of your own ignorance than it speaks of the less than 1% that goes to the CEO salary. If you want to donate to a place that truly cares about the children (and their families) who need treatment, then donate to St. Jude. Everything that place does is about taking care of the children and their families in every way, from healthcare to a place to stay while they are here to their overall well-being. This is one of the best places that exists in this world. If you want your money to truly make a difference, donate to St. Jude.

Get over it!
Posted by Betzabel  |  December 16, 2008 7:19:33 AM

For my wedding instead of wedding favors we donated to St. Judes. They sent little bookmarks to set on the tables. I very much want to keep donating to this charity. I know that others think that what the CEO makes is too much, but he/she makes such a small percentage compared to what money is brought in. I mean they don't even make one percent. We live in a world where wages aren't always fair. Servers can make more than EMTs. I think the $400K sounds like alot because most of us don't make that much, but I think it is right in line with what is brought in. Please remember that this is for children.

CEO Pay
Posted by CSteffen  |  December 9, 2008 6:40:19 AM

I am finding myself a bit concerned with the CEO's pay when involved with a non-profit organazation aimed at helping these beautiful children.

I am a full-time real estate agent and still doing well in the industry and have some excess income that I would like to donate to a deserving charity but when I saw the income this person makes, I about fell out of my chair.

I am currently going to college to get my Bachelor's in Business and Marketing and my goal is to work in the medical industry. I think I'll apply for his job and offer to receive a much reduced salary.

I make about 150k per year yet this year I've barely made 60k but still have plenty to give. I would definitely not take that kind of salary for a CEO position for a non-profit organization.

The idea of a non-profit is to gain as much financial support as possible. This income he is earning is way out of line and a negative image at that. What could 300k do for a child or several children? Quite a bit. I believe the salary should be around $100,000 to $150,000. At least that's the type of salary I would request of this type of position as the rewards of the heart would be much greater than the rest of the money!

Still considering my donations.

C Steffen AI, WA

Helping the CEO or the Children?
Posted by Robert46  |  December 8, 2008 6:39:16 AM

CEO at $418.8K is just a bit over the top. This is one charity I donate to, but with a CEO getting .08%, I often do not respond to the snail mails except at Christmas. Marlo, why can you not find a CEO to do this for under $250K? Most of your donors may tend to donate more often in this tight economy if the greed of a CEO is given a salary in line with a charitable foundation. I'll be happy to take on the job for $75K.

CEO Pay
Posted by jmonagh  |  December 4, 2008 6:39:39 AM

The President of the US only makes $400K and look at the level of his responsibility. I think anything over $250K is unreasonable. I also don't like getting calls by telemarketers esp. early on Sat Morning.

St Jude's
Posted by Sobriety  |  December 1, 2008 9:31:02 AM

Something needs to be done about CEO's salaries in general. The worst part is I wonder if the CEO also gets a bonus on top of that salary? My contribution goes elsewhere until I'm more comfortable with their effeciency rating.

CEO Salary
Posted by miscelany  |  December 1, 2008 9:30:27 AM

There must be a better way to be able to donate to St. Jude's rather than have a fraction go to the CEO. Salary way too excessive!

St. Jude is more than just a Children's Hospital
Posted by memphisbelle  |  December 1, 2008 9:06:07 AM

St. Jude's is a RESEARCH hospital. It takes NO PAYMENT from its patients. It also provides living quarters for families of patients who are in Memphis for treatment for extended periods of time. It also had 3 satellite hospitals to help those who can't afford to pick up their lives and move to Memphis. This CEO has improved its marketing reach and increased the donations. Living in Memphis, I am proud of this hospital and all it does for its patients.

Ceo Salary
Posted by rjordan392  |  November 24, 2008 2:55:27 PM

Is the Ceo working for St. Jude's or for himself? How can anyone making between $419,000 to $500,000 justify asking people of much, much, much lesser means, to donate, when the propective doners make between $40,000 to $60,000 on average. Hey, Mr. Ceo, send me a picture of you, your McMansion and your McYacht along with a picture of the children that the money is supposed to go to.

CEO not really out of line
Posted by Ed S  |  November 24, 2008 8:56:46 AM

It would be nice to have a CEO who would work for little money. However, the fact is that running an organization the size of a half-billion dollar corporation takes a lot of work by talented people. To attract such people requires a good salary and benefits. If you don't like telemarketers, give direct.

Best Children's Hospitals - Cancer
Posted by Sydney  |  November 24, 2008 8:53:02 AM

I was going to donate to this hospital. But after reading it's rating and expense report, I have to say it really concerns me. In order to make a good choice, I have gone through many organizations' reports on this site. My understanding is 16.0% is definitely a very high fundraising expense rate, compare to other 4-star organizations. And I guess that's partially why their Program Expenses is only 76.4%, much lower than others.

I have decided to donate to "Children's Hospital of Philadelphia" after done my research. I believe my donation for this hospital will benefit more children who need help.

Hopefully, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital will increase its program expense next year. I will reconsider it.

Fundraiser Financial Report
Posted by rjordan392  |  November 17, 2008 6:39:32 AM

I was just asked again to renew my support by making a monthly donation. So I asked for a financial report and the solicitor was ready to send me St. Judes financial report. I added that I wanted the fundraisers financial report and the solicitor promptly hung up. And another thing, All Ceo's are overpaid. we have occupations whereas the workers face danger every day and all they get is a working mans salary. Ceo salary for charities should be capped at $250,000.

CEO compensation
Posted by hardwired56  |  November 12, 2008 9:17:27 AM

I have always felt compelled to give to this org. but CEO's compensation is so out of line. I'm retired now and on a fixed income. I can't quit giving for the sake of the children but I can start a letter writing campaign to let the board know just how I and others feel.

CEO Salary
Posted by LennieA  |  November 4, 2008 6:34:25 AM

I have been a long time contributor to St. Judes and often mail in a check directly to the hospital, simply to bypass the tele-marketers taking a portion. But when I see $420k salary of the CEO, I now can see that I have been taken for a ride, and at the expense of the children.

fund efficiency and overall expense
Posted by cww  |  November 3, 2008 7:03:27 AM

My husband and I have been long time contributors to St Jude. This report gave us mixed feeling after learning of their overall efficiency rating and CEO salary. Our combined income is nowhere near what this CEO is making annually. It may be my own fault to be thrify so we can give more, but what I saw deeply disappointed me. The report also informed us the org funds are not used efficiently, effectively and wisely. Money is tighter and with everything costing more, i will consider giving St. Jude portions to other charities with better overall performance. Our 2009 charity giving is close, and i could not change, else would have change.

CEO Salary & Contributions
Posted by em83  |  October 13, 2008 5:33:46 AM

I am dissapointed by some of the responses on this website regarding the salary of the CEO.. When you consider the job and responsibilities alone it seems realistic, add the total revenue ALSAC/St Jude brings in and you'll realize this is a tiny percent, and a pay cut of even 100,000 really wouldn't change the overall operations.

To question your contributions because of this, and possibly chose not to give shows that you haven't done your research, and your concern isn't where it should be. St Jude is incredible, and one of a kind operation. Do your homework and don't just base it on what you see in a graph or chart.

charitable CEO
Posted by seascamp  |  September 30, 2008 12:53:59 PM

I am a contributor to Saint Judes,and until now I was thrilled to do so. The salary of this CEO has me heart sick. I wanted my donation to help not to support another FAT CAT. When will the greed of these leaches stop. Mother Theresa would be saddened.

Excuse ME!!!
Posted by jjameljj  |  September 12, 2008 7:15:08 AM

Beggars??? How about you look the sick children in the face and tell them to stop begging. If one of those sick children called asking the same exact thing as the adult tele-marketers, you would not complain because somehow you would feel sorry for them. If they have noticed that you are a regular contributor, maybe they are trying to make it easier for you to give by offering to set you up with something regular. Them asking for an increase should not be an insult to you. You don't get insulted when Burger King asks you to up size your meal. You do it gladly. Keep in mind the main focus of giving...the children

"Beggars can't be choosers"
Posted by Tx Ret Teacher  |  September 8, 2008 9:09:25 AM

As a retired teacher living on a fixed income, I try to contribute to about two dozen different charities. In order to do this, I have to budget a fixed amount per month. I give as much as I comfortably can. So I really resented it when St. Jude's employed a tele-marketer to try to convince me to commit to a contract to increase the amount and frequency of my contribution. I suspect that the tele-marketer, as a for-profit business, receives a commission on the amount of new money that it brings in. This puts charitable giving on the same level as any business. Why would I want to contribute to the profits of a business (telemarketing) that I personally abhor? Now they want to tell me how much and how often to give! Whatever happened to that old adage "Beggars can't be choosers"? The board of directors needs to reconsider this policy of using tele-marketers. It is a turnoff as far as I am concerned.

CEO's Salary
Posted by SC  |  August 14, 2008 6:09:42 AM

I agree that charities need to have talented indivuals working for them, and I agree that those individuals deserve a reasonable salary, but $420,000 is just too much. I'd love to continue donating to this charity, but under these circumstances, I just can't do it. I'll have to check back next year.

CEO comments
Posted by kookydough  |  July 28, 2008 6:13:47 AM

Very surprised to see the salary of the CEO of this org. I realize they raise a lot of money, but I am now hesitant about donating again to this charity

Corporate and Personal Donor
Posted by SMK  |  July 16, 2008 9:23:52 AM

In performing research into St. Judes for my company, I found them to be open, cooperative, and willing to provide support, even technical support, free of charge to assist our company with handling the donation drive. This is direct contrast to other major charity organizations that will remain nameless who put directions on how and who to use for our drive that actually would cost money. Plus, in learning about all they do and how families are welcomed, I became a personal donor. While the CEO's salary may be more than most, it correlates to the amount of revenue and work involved to other charities in direct analysis.

CEO's salary
Posted by MJ  |  June 25, 2008 12:11:28 PM

I have been a monthly contributor for the last eight years and am dismayed to see how much the CEO receives. I will have to rethink my donation to this charity and look for another charity devoted to cancer research that I can contribute to instead.

CEO's salary-updated from my last message
Posted by MJ  |  June 25, 2008 12:11:15 PM

After comparing the CEO's salary of $419,856 (0.08%)to the total revenue received $568,778,035 I realized that this was not out of line for running such a large organization. I will happily continue to contribute to this charity!

St. Jude CEO Fundraiser
Posted by peppiegirl  |  June 24, 2008 6:06:24 AM

I realize that CEO's have to make a living, too, but $528k is possitively TOO MUCH !! Make it $100k and maybe I'll think of giving to St. Jude. That extra $400k could go to the children who really need it. I think it's a SIN when a CEO thinks he/she has to make so much money while children suffer.

U S News article June 9,2008
Posted by Ed  |  June 5, 2008 6:16:29 AM

St Judes has a score of 51.2 and ranked # 6 among Childrens Cancer Hospitals While Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia scores 100 and is ranked # 1 Salaries and fund raising costs are also out of line with other charities

understanding & not pushy
Posted by lkane  |  May 13, 2008 6:15:58 AM

We had been "partners in hope" for about a year (donating $50 per month) when my husband took a new job. He didn't receive a paycheck for 6 mos so I called St. Jude to cancel our monthly deduction from our credit card. The rep did it with out judgment, question or "can you just give less?". I was impressed by the no-pressure tactic so when we began getting a paycheck again I called them back to start our monthly contributions up. We couldn't give as much as we had in the past and they were fine with that. I commend them for not pressuring us or making us feel bad for not being able to do as much. We will continue to give as long as we are able.

great
Posted by st. jude patien  |  May 6, 2008 5:43:49 AM

i am a patient at st. jude and it is a home away from home! if you have never toured you really should it is a great place!!!

cool charity
Posted by jfndmfjfg  |  April 25, 2008 11:40:15 AM

cool charity

double dipping
Posted by geneb909  |  April 14, 2008 6:03:10 AM

We donated at Christmas time. We did not complete the transaction until late January--and then we were billed twice. It took a month to straighten everything out.

St. Jude CEO Fundraiser
Posted by miscelany  |  March 24, 2008 5:41:39 AM

I am donating to this charity as you have a 4 star rating. However, $528k for your CEO is higher than I normally like to see when I contribute to a charity. The board might consider a salary below $400k.