Table of content
Early Life and Education
Professional Achievements
Personal Life and Passions
Community Engagement
Final Farewell
Remembering Paula’s Legacy
Frequently Asked Questions
On February 3, 2024, Philadelphia bid farewell to one of its most influential figures, Paula June Sunshine. At 67, Paula passed away peacefully at her home, leaving behind a legacy of professional excellence, unwavering dedication to family, and transformative community service. Born on March 22, 1956, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Philip and the late Janet Sunshine, Paula’s journey was marked by remarkable achievements and profound impacts on those around her.
Early Life and Education
Demonstrating exceptional academic prowess from a young age, Paula left high school in the 11th grade to pursue a mathematics degree at Emory University. Her passion for learning didn’t stop there; she later earned an MBA from the prestigious Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. These academic foundations equipped her with the skills and knowledge that would propel her into a distinguished career.
Professional Achievements
Paula’s career was a testament to her dedication and visionary leadership. She spent 15 years in the leveraged buyout industry before joining MBNA America Bank, where she served as a senior vice president. During her 11-year tenure at MBNA, she held positions in mergers and acquisitions, marketing, and strategic planning. In 2007, Paula brought her expertise to Independence Blue Cross in Philadelphia. As the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, she played a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare accessibility across Pennsylvania.
Her leadership was instrumental in developing the Obamacare marketplace, reflecting her commitment to public service and healthcare reform. In 2019, Governor Tom Wolf appointed her to the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority, recognizing her as a balanced and experienced voice in the consumer market.
Personal Life and Passions
Beyond her professional endeavors, Paula was a devoted wife to Bob Kagan for over forty years. Together, they raised four children: Micah (married to Amy), Isaac, Sarah (married to Tim Haney), and Eli. Her grandchildren, Levi, Gabriel, and Simon, were the light of her life.
A funeral service to celebrate Paula’s life was held on February 5, 2024, at Adath Israel Congregation in Merion Station, Pennsylvania, where friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honor her extraordinary spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Jewish Family and Children’s Service or the Brighter Horizon Foundation, reflecting Paula’s lifelong devotion to community and care.
Paula’s love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life, and she cherished the moments spent with them. An adventurer at heart, Paula and Bob traveled the world, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and creating lasting memories. She also had a passion for the arts, particularly painting murals, which added beauty to community spaces and reflected her vibrant spirit.
Community Engagement
Paula’s commitment to her community was unwavering. She was actively involved in various charitable organizations, dedicating her time and resources to causes close to her heart. Her philanthropic efforts extended to mentoring future leaders, especially women, through initiatives like the Women of Independence program.
This program empowered countless female professionals, fostering a culture of mentorship and support within the corporate landscape. Her colleagues often spoke of her unique ability to transform complex challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Final Farewell
A funeral service was held on February 5, 2024, at Adath Israel Congregation in Merion Station, Pennsylvania. The ceremony brought together family, friends, colleagues, and community members to honor and celebrate Paula’s extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be made to the Jewish Family and Children’s Service or the Brighter Horizon Foundation, organizations that embody Paula’s commitment to social justice and community support.
Remembering Paula’s Legacy
Paula Philadelphia June Sunshine’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. Her contributions to the healthcare industry, her community, and her family have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. As Philadelphia mourns the loss of this remarkable woman, her spirit continues to inspire and guide those who strive to follow in her footsteps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was Paula June Sunshine?
- Paula June Sunshine was a distinguished business executive and philanthropist based in Philadelphia. She served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Independence Blue Cross and was known for her significant contributions to healthcare accessibility and community service.
- What were Paula’s major professional accomplishments?
- Paula Philadelphia had a remarkable career, including roles in the leveraged buy-out industry and as a senior vice president at MBNA America Bank. At Independence Blue Cross, she played a pivotal role in developing the Obamacare marketplace and was appointed to the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority in 2019.
- How did Paula contribute to her community?
- Beyond her professional achievements, PaulaPhiladelphia was deeply committed to community service. She was involved in various charitable organizations, mentored future leaders through programs like the Women of Independence, and supported initiatives focused on social justice and community support.
- What were Paula’s personal interests?
- PaulaPhiladelphia had a passion for traveling and exploring diverse cultures with her husband, Bob Kagan. She also enjoyed painting murals, adding beauty to community spaces, and cherished spending time with her family.
- How can one honor Paula’s memory?
- In lieu of flowers, Paula’s family has requested that donations be made to the Jewish Family and Children’s Service or the Brighter Horizon Foundation, reflecting her lifelong commitment to philanthropy and community support.
Paula’s life serves as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have through dedication, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.