(left to right: Mary Eileen "Dub" Drees, Sr. Joyce Weller, George Colman, Gerald T. Kozai, Pharm.D. President/CEO SFMC)

The highlights of the evening were the moving award presentations to George Colman, recipient of the Heart of St. Francis Award and Dr. Salvatore Danna, the Vincentian Spirit Award recipient. The awardees, joined by family and friends, were honored with photo slide shows played to their favorite songs and received a glittering crystal award resembling the St. Francis Patient Tower. Both awardees were recognized for their spirit of service, compassion and support of our Mission.

(left to right: Gerald T. Kozai, Dr. Salvatore Danna, Sr, Joyce Weller, Dr. Singh)

The highlights of the live auction were the “Sister Joyce Dinner” & the “Gourmet Home Dining Experience, Prepared & Served by SFMC Leadership.” These items sold for $10,000 and $12,000, respectively. Additionally, our Fund-a-Need raised $46,500 for patient monitors for Trauma Services. Live auction net proceeds came in at $35,500!

In keeping with tradition, the Foundation unveiled our new video, featuring Board Trustee and Medical Staff member, Dr. Michael Stephen as well as Brother Cesar and Dr. Karol Bowens. The video includes three “St. Francis Stories” which portray our Mission beautifully and represent the many individuals, donors, physicians, and associates who carry it out on a daily basis.

The most rewarding aspect of this year’s Charity Ball is the gratitude and fulfillment in knowing that we, the Foundation, did everything in our power to raise as much money for our community as possible. We are thrilled to report the fundraising results as follows:

- Net = $264,543 ($100,000 more than last year!)