Baptist Health Foundation’s Philanthropic Academy Awards

Philanthropy took center stage during “A Celebration of Generosity,” hosted by Baptist Health South Florida Foundation. The annual event took place at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables. It provided the Foundation with the opportunity to thank and recognize the generosity of its donors, with special congratulations and welcome to the Class of 2012.

“It is truly a pleasure to honor our donors, who have been so generous with their time and resources,” said Rudy Kranys, Foundation Board chairman. “Even in these challenging times, their generosity allows Baptist Health to continue providing the best healthcare experience to everyone in our community. We are extremely grateful for their continued support and dedication.”

A special reception in the lobby kicked off the evening, followed by an awards ceremony in the theater. The evening’s emcee, CBS4 anchor Cynthia Demos, shared the podium with Stephen J. Parsons, CEO of Baptist Health Foundation. A featured performance by Grammy Award-winning flutist Nestor Torres captivated the audience as he shared his passion for Baptist Health and philanthropy while performing several stellar musical pieces.

Also in the spotlight was a touching video featuring a young woman, Naomi Spears. She shared how she struggled with unbearable headaches, constant fatigue and pain for 10 years from an unknown ailment that left her with no hope. She came to Baptist Hospital and received compassionate care from the doctors and nurses at Baptist Health Neuroscience Center and Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute. Today she has hope for the future with no limitations and is free of pain, fatigue and fear.

The evening’s presenting sponsor was Kendall Anesthesia Associates/Sheridan Healthcare. Additional sponsors included Allianz Global Investors Capital; Caywood-Scholl Capital Management; Columbia Management; Diversified; Falk, Waas, Hernandez, Cortina, Solomon & Bonner, P.A.; HKS Architects, Inc.; Sage Advisory Services, LTD, Co.; Segall Bryant and Hamill; TGSV Enterprises; Trane; Tri-City Electric; Wells Capital Management and Wicker, Smith, O’Hara, McCoy & Ford, P.A

Funds raised by the Foundation support projects and programs at all Baptist Health hospitals, facilities and Centers of Excellence. If you would like more information about contributing to the Baptist Health Foundation, please call 786-467-5400, or email events@baptisthealth.net