Lyle Honig Mojica
Chief Financial Officer
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Lyle Honig Mojica grew up in a small town in Kansas and attended Kansas State University, earning his bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in accounting in 1992. Working in Kansas at the beginning of his career, he visited Los Angeles, where his sister lived, and decided to make the move to have the California dream. With a fresh start in California, Mojica started working for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation as an accountant when the company was transitioning from a hospice care facility to a preventative healthcare center model. Working on the accounting aspects of the transition, he was at the forefront when it came to working for marginalized individuals in society who had very little social and political support. After the transition, Mojica decided to branch out to the private sector to obtain his CPA with a reputable firm working as a senior business consultant at Arthur Anderson in Los Angeles. Once he obtained his CPA, he worked with major clients like Hyperion Solutions, Montgomery Watson Harza and the Los Angeles Unified School District. After making his mark working for a top accounting firm, he decided to go back to work for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation to continue his passion for working for those in need. Mojica worked his way up the ranks through the years and eventually became the assistant CFO.
During his tutelage as assistant CFO, he learned how to manage and direct others in a mutually inclusive and respectful way. It was during that time that Mojica eventually became the CFO of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, serving millions of people around the world.
He currently has 10 vice presidents and directors under him who serve day-to-day operations, which include revenue cycle, procurement, compliance, analysis, accounts payable, payroll and accounting. AIDS Healthcare Foundation recently reached a milestone, treating 1.9 million patients and counting worldwide. Under Mojica's leadership, many patients can be seen at little to no cost out of pocket. There has been an enhanced revenue stream year to year due to the analysis and hard work of the finance department at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Education/Non-Profit: Finalists
As the chief financial officer of Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, Howard Goldman goes beyond typical financial leadership in the nonprofit sector. Amidst limited resources and overwhelming needs, he out for his innovative financial strategies, steadfast dedication to the organization's mission and exceptional leadership qualities. Under his guidance, Didi Hirsch has expanded its reach through strategic partnerships and innovative service delivery, addressing critical mental health needs in the community. Goldman's commitment to financial health and sustainability is evident in his success in securing funding for essential programs, such as youth suicide prevention initiatives. With his holistic approach, he integrates the organization's mission into every financial decision he conducts. Goldman's forward-thinking strategies ensure that financial decisions align with the organization's goals.
Emilee Tello, Chief Financial Officer of Orange County United Way since 2018, played a pivotal role in the acquisition of 2-I-I Orange County (2IIOC), a key service connecting residents with vital resources. Leading the diligence and integration processes, she ensured a seamless financial and operational merger, doubling the organization's staff size. Beyond her financial duties, Tello oversees IT and facilities, ensuring the integration of 2IIOC's employees into United Way's systems and the effective management of workplace operations. Additionally, she contributes to the Journey to 100 campaign,' celebrating the organization's centennial. With a background as a CPA and experience in major companies, Tello is celebrated for her leadership and commitment to community service, including volunteer work and health and wellness initiatives.
James O. Phillips, CFO of Los Angeles Mission, brings over 36 years of experience in nonprofit financial leadership. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, he has dedicated his career to advancing charitable causes. His roles included managing a $300-million portfolio as director of accounting for Cook County Economic Development Association and helping build 160 homes as CFO of Peoria Community Action Agency. At Christ-Centered Ministries, Phillips grew revenue from $600K to $23 million. Since joining Los Angeles Mission in 2021, he has forged partnerships with AT&T, Target, CVS and the Ahmanson Foundation, securing the organization's first million-dollar public grants. He is committed to mentoring young men of color and serves on the Christian Family Center Church board.
William Van Noll, CFO of Palo Verde Hospital, has been instrumental in securing financial stability for the hospital amidst the challenges faced by community hospitals, especially post-COVID-19. successfully secured an $8.5-million loan from California's Distressed Hospital Loan Program, ensuring the hospital's operations could continue. Van Noll introduced the innovative Rural Centricity strategy, aimed at reversing the outmigration of residents seeking medical services far from Blythe. This approach enhances local accessibility to healthcare, addressing the needs of 20,000 residents. His efforts have laid the groundwork for improved medical services and the potential for a new, state-of-the-art hospital, significantly benefiting the community. Van Noll's educational background includes a bachelor's degree and an M.BA from USC, and he is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
