W INTER 2016-2017
CHRONICLE of GIVING STOR IES OF HOW YOUR GIFTS C H A N G E L I V E S AT VC U H E A LT H
COVER STORY
An Amazing Journey Florence Neal Cooper Smith — A Pioneer for Sickle Cell Awareness / PAGE 4
M CV FOUNDATION NEWS
Meet New Board Chair Harry Thalhimer /
PAGE 8
M CV FOUNDATION EVENTS
Discovery Series Marks Third Year /
PAGE 21
M CV CAM PUS NEWS
The Children’s Pavilion Opens its Doors /
PAGE 28
Chronicle of Giving | Letter from the Board Chair and President
Dear Friends:
F
iscal year 2016 was a great year for the MCV Foundation. New gifts and pledges to the MCV Campus topped $61 million. On behalf of the Foundation and our board of trustees, we want to thank each of you for your generosity and partnership. It is your support that provides critical funding for the life-saving patient care, research and education that occurs on the MCV Campus every day. As we enter the public phase of the Make It Real campaign, we are excited to work together to grow that fundraising number substantially over the next four years. There are a number of transitions both at the Foundation and across the MCV Campus occurring this year. Gail Johnson has done an outstanding job as our board chair over the last three years. We thank her for her leadership and vision, and we are grateful for her continued guidance this year as immediate past board chair. We are thrilled to welcome a number of new trustees and staff who have joined us in the past few months. Please get to know them by reading their bios in the MCV Foundation News section. John Duval, CEO of VCU Hospitals and Clinics and vice president for clinical affairs, has announced his retirement, and Jerry Strauss III, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the VCU School of Medicine, has announced plans to step down to focus on research. They have been incredibly supportive friends of the Foundation and each provided transformational leadership. We wish them great happiness and success in the next stage of their journey. John retired as of September 30, and his successor, Deborah Davis, began as CEO on October 1. Dean Strauss stepped down on January 13 and his successor, Peter F. Buckley, M.D., came on board January 17. The MCV Foundation staff and board are engaged in a number of exciting initiatives. Our new Strategic Plan is near completion and it will be presented to the board at the March meeting. Our brand research is complete, we are finalizing the strategic brand positioning, and we are developing a suite of new marketing materials, including a new website, which will be launched in early 2017. The redesign of this issue is part of the brand refresh and represents the new look of the MCV Foundation. We hope you read all of the wonderful stories in this issue, describing your generosity and the impact of your gifts. We are inspired by you, this great institution, and the incredible healthcare providers, teachers, researchers, students and patients we meet every day. Thank you for your partnership as we work together to make 2017 a banner year. â—?
Sincerely,
Harry R. Thalhimer Board Chair
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
Margaret Ann Bollmeier President
MCV Foundation Board of Trustees 2016-2017 Wyatt S. Beazley IV, J.D. John O. Beckner, R.Ph. Katherine C. Bobbitt, Ed.D. Roger L. BoevĂŠ Charles F. Bryan Jr., Ph.D. Elizabeth Whalley Buono, J.D. George W. Burke III, M.D. B. Ellen Byrne, D.D.S., Ph.D. Charles M. Caravati Jr., M.D. I. Lee Chapman IV Herbert A. Claiborne III, J.D. Richard M. Clary, M.D. Judith B. Collins, W.H.N.P. William D. Covington, D.D.S. Charles F. Crone Steven A. DeLuca George P. Emerson Jr. Sheryl Garland Jeffrey H. Gumenick L. Preston Hale, R.Ph. Basil Leonard Hurst III Darius A. Johnson Gail W. Johnson, R.N. Lee B. Krumbein David A. Lyons Ronald H. McFarlane, R.Ph. J. Keith Middleton H. Frederick T. Moore Robert F. Norfleet Jr. Rebecca T. Perdue John F. Philips, D.D.S. Ghulam D. Qureshi, M.D. James H. Revere Jr., D.D.S. John W. Slyh, C.P.A. T.K. Somanath Ellen E. Spong Tracy Kemp Stallings James H. Starkey III Kit T. Sullivan, D.D.S. Joseph M. Teefey Harry R. Thalhimer Richard P. Wenzel, M.D., M.Sc. Michelle Y. Whitehurst-Cook, M.D. Judith Forehand Woods Steve L. Worley Ex Officio Members: Michael Rao, Ph.D. President of VCU Marsha D. Rappley, M.D. Chief Executive Officer, VCU Health System & Vice President, VCU Health Sciences
MCV Foundation
Winter 2016-2017
Chronicle of Giving
Below: Brian Thomas and Florence Neal Cooper Smith join Elizabeth Bunting, who organized the Amazine Journey event, on the red carpet. Photo: Kevin Schindler
CONTENTS
The Chronicle of Giving is published twice a year by the MCV Foundation for alumni and friends of the Medical College of Virginia Campus of Virginia Commonwealth University. © 2017 MCV Foundation E D I TO R /
Alex Henley
Carrie Bickford, Margaret Ann Bollmeier, Elizabeth Bunting, Tammy McCausland, Harry Thalhimer, Alison Smith and Brian Thomas CO N TR I BU T O R S /
GRA PH I C D E S I G N /
Journey Group, Inc.
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The MCV Foundation was established in 1949 to inspire and steward philanthropy that supports the MCV Campus of Virginia Commonwealth University. —————————
The MCV Foundation supports the education, research and clinical care mission of our MCV Campus Partners: VCU School of Allied Health Professions, VCU School of Dentistry, VCU School of Medicine, VCU School of Nursing, VCU School of Pharmacy, VCU Massey Cancer Center and VCU Medical Center. —————————
The Foundation currently manages $500 million in assets to ensure the MCV Campus remains at the forefront of excellence and innovation in patient care, education and research. Through its 1,500 funds, the MCV Foundation provides scholarships, professorships, research and program funds to support the life-saving work occurring here every day. These funds allow VCU students, healthcare providers and researchers to be on the cutting edge of healthcare delivery, offering patients the most exciting treatments and medical technology available. We honor the history of the Medical College of Virginia, MCV Foundation and the value of philanthropy to healthcare education, research and service. —————————
Dr. Robert Scott, Florence Neal Cooper Smith and Dr. Wally Smith reunite at the MCV Foundation. Photo: Kevin Schindler O N THE C OV E R /
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If you would prefer to receive this magazine via email, please contact alex.henley@vcuhealth.org to be added to the email distribution list. GOI N G GR E E N /
MCV Foundation
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COVER STORY
An Amazing Journey Florence Neal Cooper Smith — A Pioneer for Sickle Cell Awareness
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MCV FOUNDATION NEWS
Meet our new board chair, Harry Thalhimer, along with the newest MCV Foundation trustees and staff.
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MCV FOUNDATION FINANCIALS
Review the Foundation’s fiscal year 2016 financials.
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MCV FOUNDATION EVENTS
Read about the annual board meeting, Harper’s Hope fundraising event and the Discovery Series.
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MCV CAMPUS NEWS
Catch up on the latest news across the MCV Campus.
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | Cover story
An Amazing Journey Florence Neal Cooper Smith — A Pioneer for Sickle Cell Awareness
A packed crowd watches the Amazing Journey film with Dr. Wally Smith, Derrick Perry, Dr. Robert Scott, LaVerne Cooper and Florence Neal Cooper Smith on the front row (left to right).
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
MCV Foundation
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MCV Foundation hosts the Amazing Journey fundraising event at Richmond’s Hippodrome Theater.
curiosity in medicine was sparked at an early age. While on a routine visit to the doctor’s office as a child, she came across a book on hematology. “I turned to sickle cell anemia. It said it was found in colored people (that was the terminology back then); that you were born with it. There was no cure and you died young. I could not forget that and it stuck with me,” Florence said in the documentary film Amazing Journey. That doctor’s office visit set the course for a lifelong quest to raise awareness and find a cure for sickle cell anemia. Many call Florence the “mother of sickle cell in Virginia” as a term of endearment for her tenacity in breaking down barriers and advocating for the sufferers of this disease. Florence, a graduate of Virginia Union University, the Atlantic City School of Medical Technology and the Medical College of Virginia (Pathology), met Robert Scott, M.D., in the late 1960s when F L OR E NC E N E A L C O OPE R S M I T H ’ S
Derrick Perry, director of the Amazing Journey documentary film, shares his personal connection to Florence’s story and why he made the film.
he came to the MCV Campus as a professor in the department of hematology. Dr. Scott was also very interested in raising awareness about sickle cell anemia in the community. A meeting with Florence and Dr. Scott was initiated by his research technician, Laverne Cooper, and the two became a formidable team. Florence worked with churches, community groups and schools to organize health fairs and offer patients screening tests for the sickle cell trait. In 1969, she organized Richmond’s first citywide survey to determine the extent of sickle cell awareness. In 1972, she and Dr. Scott founded the Virginia Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Program (VASCAP), one of the original 19 federally-funded sickle cell anemia screening clinics, and the first in the state. With the civil rights movement in full swing during this time, Florence and Dr. Scott faced resistance on multiple fronts. Sickle cell trait, the —Continued on page 6
MCV Foundation
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | Cover story healthy carrier state, occurs in approximately one in 12 African Americans, and about one in 500 African Americans is living with the disease. While the disease affects all races, there was concern in the African American community about being viewed as less healthy. There were also some schools that only wanted to educate African American students about the disease. Florence held firm that everyone needed to be informed. Sickle cell disease screening is important because a person can be a carrier of the trait without experiencing the disease. While both parents must be carriers to pass it on, it is important to know both your and your partner’s status because there is a 25 percent chance of passing the disease on to children. Sickle cell anemia causes red blood cells to become rigid, forming painful blockages that prevent oxygen and nutrients from reaching organs and tissue. The blockages can result in organ
damage, strokes and other medical complications. Florence also worked to secure legislative support to fight the disease. She contacted Governor L. Douglas Wilder, a state senator at the time, to pass legislation that would include sickle cell anemia in the Virginia state healthcare plan. In 1989, Virginia added hemoglobinopathy screening to newborn testing to provide early identification and treatment for patients. We recently hosted an event at the Hippodrome Theater to celebrate Florence’s legacy and raise funds for sickle cell research, with the hopes of elevating the endowed professorship in her name at the VCU School of Medicine to an endowed chair. Derrick Perry’s film, Amazing Journey, was featured, documenting Florence’s life and work. Florence spoke at the event, saying, “Seventy-five babies each year are diagnosed with sickle cell disease, so the journey has to continue.” She
The jazz band Plunky & Oneness entertains the crowd.
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
MCV Foundation
A Few Examples of Current Sickle Cell Disease Research Occurring on the MCV Campus: • A five-year $3.1 million grant awarded by the National Heart, Virginia Tourism Corporation’s Carolyn Wren and Rita McClenny enjoy the event. Photos: Kevin Schindler
Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health for research in overcoming barriers to
introduced her friend and collaborator, Dr. Scott, by saying, “They call me the mother of sickle cell. Well, you have to have a father. Dr. Robert Scott is the father.” Dr. Scott quipped a crowd-pleaser: “I didn’t know I had so many children, but I’m so happy about it.” He continued, “Now we’re progressing even further. Dr. Wally Smith is doing wonderful work.” Wally R. Smith, M.D., is the scientific director of the VCU Center on Health Disparities and the director of the VCU Adult Sickle Cell Program. He was appointed as the inaugural holder of the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Professorship in 2014. A nationally recognized expert on sickle cell disease, his focus includes researching a cure and improving treatment methods. Dr. Smith also spoke at the event. “The patients of sickle cell anemia are so precious to me. They climb their mountain every day. They say, ‘We have this disease, but this disease doesn’t have us.’ We’re going to beat this thing.” Dr. Smith concluded his appeal with, “Will you join us and help us move this mountain?” We have raised $300,000 toward a goal of $1 million to endow the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Professorship and keep Florence’s legacy moving forward. In her words, “It’s been a wonderful journey. We need you. We need you to continue this journey with us. It’s not going to end until we find a cure.” ● To learn how you can contribute to the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Professorship, please contact Elizabeth Bunting, MCV Foundation director of special programs, at elizabeth.bunting@ vcuhealth.org or 804-628-0358.
MCV Foundation
healthcare among adults with sickle cell disease in Virginia. • A Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program Regional Collaborative for the Northeast region from the Health Resources and Services Administration with the Johns Hopkins Division of Hematology/Oncology. • A phase 1B, randomized, doubleblind, placebo-controlled study, funded by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Inc., to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of F-04447943, co-administered with and without hydroxyurea, in subjects with stable sickle cell disease. • The SUSTAIN study to assess the safety and impact of SelG1 with or without hydroxyurea therapy in sickle cell disease patients with pain crises, funded by Selexys Pharmaceuticals Corporation. • An investigation of selfmanagement of safe exercise for individuals with sickle cell disease in collaboration with VCU School of Nursing and Suzanne Ameringer, Ph.D., funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research.
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Foundation News
Meet New Board Chair Harry Thalhimer
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All of us at the MCV Foundation feel extremely fortunate to welcome Harry Thalhimer as our new board chair.
A native Richmonder, Harry attended Collegiate School for 13 years before venturing out to the Midwest to attend Northwestern University and the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business, and to work with retailing giant Marshall Fields. Harry not only gained knowledge and business experience during his time away, he also met his wife Marcia, whom he has been married to for 37 years. Harry returned to his roots in Richmond in 1978 and began working at his family’s well-known retail business, Thalhimers. In 1997, he purchased a headwear manufacturing company and has been running Thalhimer Headwear for the last 20 years, producing headwear for leading brands across the U.S. and Europe. Harry and Marcia have raised two sons, Michael and Andrew, welcomed their daughter-in-law, Alyson, and their first granddaughter, Rose. We sat down with Harry to learn more about his work with our Foundation.
Can you tell us about your family’s legacy providing support to VCU and the MCV Campus? Harry: We’ve always been involved in community service — it’s been the fabric of our family for at least three generations. My mother was appointed to the board of the Richmond Professional Institute and was on the board when it merged with VCU, and my father was on the board of the MCV Foundation. He became a lifetime honorary trustee and chaired two campaigns at VCU. We’ve done philanthropic work on both campuses, supporting academics, athletics, the medical center and the school of business. Marcia and I are also very active raising funds for the building campaign at VCU’s Institute of Contemporary Art.
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
Photo: Jay Paul Photography
What inspires you to give to this great institution and become so personally involved in giving your time and energy? Harry: My family’s involvement with VCU stemmed from recognition that the blessings we enjoyed came out of our retail business that was fueled by the support of the community, so it was essential to give back to this community. VCU is a place that could ultimately be a catalyst for the growth of Richmond. Over time, it became clear that the role of the medical center in the growth of the entire university is so substantial that it only makes sense to be involved here. VCU Health is an economic driver not just of the university and city, but of the entire Central Virginia region. I’m very excited to be taking on a leadership role that will help in the building of this great community. How did you first become involved with the MCV Foundation? Harry: I had a conversation with my dad several years before he passed away and asked him how Marcia and I should
MCV Foundation
be involved in the community to follow in his generous footsteps. He told me to keep my eye on education and the medical center, and that will create a great future for Central Virginia. I reached out to Sheldon Retchin to see how I could act on that. He suggested I look into the MCV Foundation, and I have been a board member of the Foundation since 2009. What was it about the MCV Foundation that made you want to become so involved? Harry: There is a great heritage and value to donors, we all really believe in the Foundation. But, there is even greater potential than is being realized. We could be doing so much more. It’s such an exciting time to be here – it’s a reenergized and refocused organization. The team that we’re assembling on the professional side is dramatically enhanced and the board involvement has been amped up substantially. Where do you see the trajectory of the MCV Foundation headed over the next few years? Harry: We should be a billion-dollar foundation. You don’t get there without resources. It takes great professional leadership, board leadership, a plan and
Harry speaks with a group of Discovery Series attendees — (left to right) Bruce Snyder, Fred Konta, Dr. Wil Rowley, Linda Rowley and Marcia Snyder. Photo: Brad Howe Photography
everyone buying in to that plan. This is an organization that must change and is changing. We’re spreading our wings and we’ve gotten everyone on the board to agree with our expanded fundraising role to support VCU Health. It’s real, it’s happening, and it’s very rewarding. When not at the MCV Foundation, what do you enjoy doing? Harry: Marcia and I just celebrated our 37th year together, which makes both of us saints. We’ve developed a life that is
MCV Foundation board members Jim Starkey and Judith Forehand Woods join Harry and his wife Marcia at the annual board dinner (left to right). Photo: CSI Studios
MCV Foundation
very full and we are the beneficiaries of great blessings, so we feel the responsibility to share with our personal time and financial support. We have a wonderful relationship with our sons and daughter-in-law and we enjoy seeing them. We don’t get to travel as much as we’d like due to our busy schedules, but travel, art and food are some of our biggest enjoyments. Do you have any closing remarks you’d like to share with us? Harry: The incredible level of care and unbelievable accomplishments achieved across the MCV Campus make this resource something that we have to make people aware of so they can use it — it’s a world-class enterprise. As I look back at my life at this point in time and realize the commitment to this organization — being involved at the MCV Foundation is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. It’s not about me, it’s about what we do. If we can do our job well, the institution benefits, the community benefits, and we can say it was all worth it. ●
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Foundation News
Thank You, Gail Johnson
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e are extremely grateful to Gail Johnson for her 22 years of service on the MCV Foundation board of trustees, and especially for her dedication as our board chair for the last three years. Gail’s leadership has been crucial as she helped guide the Foundation during a time of transition and crystallize our focus as a fundraising entity. Gail’s experience as an entrepreneurial business leader, pediatric nurse and in early childhood education gave her a unique lens to help strengthen the Foundation’s relationships across the MCV Campus, VCU and in the community. Gail will continue on the board through the end of FY 2017 as immediate past board chair. “The opportunity to spend the last 18 months working with Gail Johnson has been so positive and rewarding,” said Harry Thalhimer, MCV Foundation board chair. “Many organizations have leadership changes and then the book closes and another one opens. Gail and I have worked side by side seven days a week, at night, on the phone, in meetings and through email. Never once did we disagree.” “As a new president to the Foundation, it was invaluable to work side by side with Gail over the past year,” said Margaret Ann Bollmeier, MCV Foundation president. “Her vast experience and positive attitude allowed us to accomplish a great deal in just a short period of time. We look forward to her continued involvement and guidance.” ● Photo: Kevin Schindler
“As a new president to the Foundation, it was invaluable to work side by side with Gail over the past year.” — Margaret Ann Bollmeier, MCV Foundation president
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
MCV Foundation
Welcome the Newest Members of the MCV Foundation Staff A L E X A N DR A A N DER S ON
A L IS ON SM I T H
Alexandra joined the MCV Foundation as assistant director of donor relations and stewardship in June 2016. Her responsibilities include processing gift agreements, planning and executing the MCV Campus scholarship brunch, helping generate endowment reports and providing stewardship support. Her expertise lies in event planning, logistics coordination, project management, stewardship, and alumni and board relations. Alexandra decided to transition into a career in development in early 2015. She served as the development coordinator for the School of Engineering Foundation for 18 months before joining the Foundation. A Maryland native, Alexandra relocated to Richmond from Washington, D.C., in 2013. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Maryland. Alexandra teaches yoga and fitness classes in her free time, and enjoys hiking with her fiancé, Calvin, and her dog, Tanner.
Alison joined the MCV Foundation as controller in May 2016 and currently serves as interim chief financial officer. She has more than 20 years of experience as a CPA focused on nonprofit and closely held organizations. Alison comes to the Foundation from the VCU School of Engineering Foundation where she was the finance manager. Her other experience includes financial management roles in nonprofits and private organizations. A Richmond native, Alison began her career in the tax department of the Big 4 accounting firm, EY. She is an alumna of VCU’s School of Business with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She is a member of the American Institute of CPAs. Outside the office, Alison enjoys spending time with family, walking her dogs, being outdoors and on the water, and volunteering at her son’s school. ●
JA N E G A R N ET BROW N Jane Garnet joined the MCV Foundation as director of gift planning in September 2016. Most recently, Jane Garnet was the director of capital giving at the Nightingale-Bamford School in New York City, where she oversaw their $45 million capital campaign. Prior to her time at Nightingale, Jane Garnet worked at Columbia University as the associate director for gift planning, where she managed planned giving for Columbia’s graduate schools. Earlier in her career at Columbia, she served as an assistant director of individual giving, securing leadership annual gifts for Columbia Business School. Her previous experience includes working with individuals, families and foundations in wealth management at Brown Brothers Harriman and SunTrust Private Wealth Management. She began her career in development at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia. Jane Garnet is a graduate of Davidson College and holds a Master of Trust and Wealth Management from Campbell University. In addition, Jane Garnet holds a Master of Fundraising Management from Columbia University. After recently moving back to her home state of Virginia from New York, Jane Garnet enjoys exploring Richmond with her husband, Tyler, and three-year old son, Carter.
MCV Foundation
Photos: Thomas Kojcsich, VCU University Marketing
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Foundation News
Six New Trustees Join the MCV Foundation I . L EE CH A PM A N I V
WYATT S. BEAZLEY IV, J.D. Wyatt S. Beazley IV, J.D., joined Williams Mullen in 1992 and is co-chair of the Williams Mullen Health Care Team. The primary focus of Wyatt’s practice is negotiating and structuring healthcare transactions and advising clients on the applicability of various federal and state healthcare laws and regulations. Wyatt received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia in 1989 and his law degree from the University of Richmond School of Law in 1992. He has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America® and Virginia Super Lawyers magazine, and has been named by Virginia Business magazine as one of the “Legal Elite” since 2009. Wyatt is currently the immediate past chairman of the board for The Doorways and a member of William Mullen’s board of directors. Wyatt previously served on the board of the Greater Richmond YMCA and as chairman of the VBA’s Young Lawyer Division, Minority Recruitment Committee.
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I. Lee Chapman IV, CFA, is president and chief executive officer at Davenport & Company LLC. He began his career in the financial services industry in 1993 with Nations Securities. Lee joined Davenport in 1995 as a portfolio manager with Davenport Asset Management. Lee is a member of the CFA Institute and SIFMA. He currently serves on the boards of St. Christopher’s School Board of Governors, Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges, The Richmond Forum and Junior Achievement of Central Virginia. Lee is a native of Richmond, Virginia, where he lives with his wife, Martha, and three children. He graduated from the University of Virginia in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.
ST E V EN DELUCA Steven DeLuca is senior director of state and local government relations for Capital One Financial, responsible for relationship management with state and local governments in several states for the country’s seventh largest bank. Prior to joining the Government & Policy Affairs Group, Steven held positions of increasing responsibility at Capital One, most recently as chief of staff for the senior vice president of the payments business. He has worked as a senior relationship manager and senior project manager since joining Capital One in 1999. Steven serves on the boards of VCU Health and the Valentine Museum. A native of Long Island, he received a Bachelor of Arts in political science with a minor in business management from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. He is a life member and four-time president of Hanover Fire Department Company 10 and was twice named Firefighter of the Year.
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
MCV Foundation
SH ERY L G A R L A N D Sheryl Garland joined the VCU Health System in 1988 after completing an administrative residency at MCV Hospitals. Prior to her current appointment as vice president for health policy and community relations, she has served in various leadership roles in planning and ambulatory care services. In addition to her health system responsibilities, she has held numerous positions within VCU, including director of community outreach for the VCU Institute for Women’s Health, administrative director of the VCU Center on Health Disparities, and her current position, director of the
VCU Office of Health Innovation. Sheryl is a native Richmonder who received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Wake Forest University and a master’s degree in health administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is a former trustee of the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation, and currently serves on the boards of CrossOver Health Ministry and the University Health ServicesProfessional Education Programs. Sheryl is married to Christopher Garland and they are the proud parents of two daughters, Christian and Cameran.
T R AC Y K EM P STA L L I NG S Tracy Kemp Stallings joined the MCV Foundation board in summer 2016, and also serves on the VCU Foundation board. She has two degrees from MCV, a bachelor’s degree in nursing and an executive master’s degree in health administration. Tracy works in the VCU Department of Health Administration as adjunct faculty, director of industry engagement, assisting with MHA administrative residency coordination. This follows a 31-year career with HCA, the last 11 years serving as chief operating officer at Johnston-Willis Hospital. Tracy serves on the Chesterfield County Health Center Commission for Lucy Corr Village, Capital Region Collaborative, Watkins Centre Community Development Authority, and was recently board chair for the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce. She is a member of the VMFA’s Canvas Board and a member of the VCU Pollack Society. Tracy loves living in Richmond with her husband Tom.
MCV Foundation
ST E V E WOR L E Y Steve Worley is the former president/CEO of LCMC Health and Children’s Hospital. After 34 years, he has retired and been appointed president/CEO Emeritus of Children’s Hospital. Steve received his M.S.B.A. and undergraduate degrees from VCU. He is chairman of the board of The Blood Center for Southeast Louisiana, and past-chairman of the Louisiana Hospital Association, the Metropolitan Hospital Council of New Orleans and the board of the Child Health Corporation of America. Steve is an active member of the Children’s Hospitals International Executive Forum and the Board of Regents of Our Lady of Holy Cross College. He is a past board member of the New Orleans Regional Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scouts of America, Inroads/New Orleans, and the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions Inc., and a past member of the Institute of Healthcare Executives & Suppliers. He currently serves on the VCU board of visitors, the VCUHS board of directors, the VPHP board of directors and the MCV Foundation. ●
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Medical College of Virginia Foundation Statement of Financial Position For the year ended June 30, 2016 | Amounts in thousands
ASSETS Operating pooled investments Cash and cash equivalents
$
2,951
Long-term investments
66,669 69,620
Total operating pooled investments
371,412
Managed portfolio pooled investments
1,215
Agency assets
30,092
Other assets
Total Assets: $ 472,339
LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
Debt service obligations
$ 7,340
Donor restricted
Accounts payable
1,148
Temporarily
Obligation under split-interest agreements
2,042
Permanently
Agency liabilities
1,215
$ 201,638 208,994
Unrestricted Board designated
29,483
Other
20,479
Total liabilities: $ 11,745
Total net assets: $ 460,594 Total Liabilities and Net Assets: $ 472,339
Medical College of Virginia Foundation Financial Highlights For the year ended June 30, 2016
TOTAL ASSETS (IN MILLIONS)
DISBURSMENTS TOTALING $27.5 MILLION BY PROGRAM
2011
$ 415.5
2012
410.2
2013
444.1
2014
479.6
2015
490.1
2016
472.3
2016 DISBURSMENTS
PROGRAM DISBURSMENTS (IN MILLIONS) 2011
$ 29.2
2012
29.4
73.0%
Educational, research and general
2013
31.8
15.5%
Faculty salaries and support
2014
32.7
9.7%
Scholarship and awards
2015
29.9
1.3%
Other program services
2016
27.5
0.4%
Indigent patient care
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Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
This is a condensed version of the financial statements submitted to the MCV Foundation. Our independent auditor issued an Unmodified Opinion on the complete financial statements, which can be obtained by writing or calling the MCV Foundation office.
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Foundation Financials
Financial Commentary
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ended June 30, 2016, the Foundation received contributions of $32.7 million. A substantial portion of that included the $16 million gift from Mr. Ken Wright to name the C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research. As we begin the university-wide Make It Real campaign, we have a continued focus on bringing in new contributions. The university has set an overall fundraising goal of $750 million for the next four years, with $450 million raised to date. Fundraising across the MCV Campus exceeded $61 million this fiscal year, representing 67% of funds raised across all of VCU. F OR T H E F I S CA L Y E A R
We’re pleased to report the Foundation established 19 new endowed scholarships and 11 new endowed chairs and professorships this year. This brings the Foundation total to 282 endowed scholarships and 182 endowed chairs and professorships. Our endowment, like endowments all over the country, had a negative return at year-end due to market conditions, but we are pleased to report we have recouped most of that over the first quarter. Our short-term portfolio had a positive return, benefitting from many of the market factors that worked against longer-term strategies. ●
32.7 16 $ % 61 67 282 182 RECEIVED CONTRIBUTIONS
LARGEST SINGLE CONTRIBUTION
$
MM
FUNDRAISING ACROSS MCV CAMPUS IN FY 2016
$
MM
PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL RAISED FOR VCU
MM
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS
MCV Foundation
ENDOWED CHAIRS AND PROFESSORSHIPS
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Foundation Events
MCV Foundation Trustees Come Together at Annual Board Meeting
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he beautiful Country Club of Virginia served as the location for the Foundation’s annual board meeting and dinner. Gail Johnson reflected on her last three years as board chair and passed the gavel to Harry Thalhimer. “Take it with my blessing and to new places,” she said. Harry expressed gratitude for Gail’s leadership, “I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Gail for the last 18 months. We have worked together to accomplish what we didn’t think was possible, and this a true testament to Gail.” The new slate of officers selected included Harry Thalhimer as chair, Gail Johnson as immediate past chair, Charles Crone
as corporate secretary, and Darius Johnson as treasurer. Four trustees renewed their terms for three years: Roger Boeve, Elizabeth Buono, Jeffrey Gumenick and Keith Middleton, and Gail renewed her term for one year. We also wish to express our gratitude to the five members who completed their board terms this June — JoAnne K. Henry, Ed.D.; John Martin; Bertha C. Rolfe, R.Ph.; George W. Vetrovec, M.D.; and Harold F. Young, M.D. We look forward to continued collaboration with them through a new initiative, currently in development, that will allow our former board members to stay engaged with the Foundation.
During the dinner, two former board members were awarded lifetime honorary trustee status for their significant contributions over the years. Austin Brockenbrough III was a board member for 21 years and established a team of investment professionals to manage the Foundation’s endowment until his firm formally took over in 2012. “When I think of Austin and his service to the Foundation, he has helped ensure the stability of the investment portfolio through his wise counsel and advice,” said Harry Thalhimer, board chair. “He will now be a lifetime honorary trustee, which is an appropriate way to recognize his decades of service to the Foundation.” Brian Thomas, vice president and chief development officer, added, “Austin is absolutely cemented in his commitment to maintaining a strong, healthy and vibrant Foundation supporting the MCV Campus and VCU Health, and he is a true champion of all things that go on here.” Austin has agreed to take a lead role with a new group to engage former trustees. Stay tuned for more details in the next issue. J. William Gray Jr., J.D., served on the board for 20 years and continues to provide his expert legal advice that has guided the Foundation since 1995. “Bill is an encyclopedia on Virginia philanthropic organization rules and regulations. He lives every day to make sure we do great things at the MCV Foundation and that we do it right. He is a pillar of unwavering support,” said Harry Thalhimer. “For decades, Bill has brought tremendous knowledge regarding governance, gift acceptance and other legal matters to the Foundation,” said Margaret Ann Bollmeier, president. “We’re grateful to recognize him with this honor as he continues to offer his excellent advice and guidance.”
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MCV Foundation
We were pleased to honor four recipients with the MCV Foundation awards during the dinner reception. Jerome F. Strauss III, M.D., Ph.D. (pictured second from left), was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Jerome F. Strauss Award, established in his honor as a nationally renowned researcher, educator and administrator who has served as dean of the VCU School of Medicine since 2005. This award will be given annually to a VCU Health administrator, faculty or staff member who has demonstrated extraordinary service and stewardship to MCV alumni, donors or other members of the community to support and advance the mission of the MCV Foundation. Jerry was recognized for contributions outlined in the article on page 30.
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Herbert A. Claiborne Jr., M.D. (pictured with his wife Kitty), was selected as the 2016 recipient of the Michael B. Dowdy Award. This award recognizes a volunteer who has played a lead role fundraising for the MCV Campus. Dr. Claiborne is a lifetime honorary trustee of the MCV Foundation and served as a trustee for 16 years and board chair from 1995 – 2001. He is chair of the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation, and his advocacy for the VCU School of Nursing is described in the article on page 22. Judith B. Collins, W.H.N.P. (pictured on the left), was selected as the 2016 recipient of the Eugene P. Trani MCV Campus Leadership Award. This award recognizes exceptional dedication and support of the MCV Campus. Judy has been a trustee of the MCV Foundation since 1997 and has been an active member of the communications, development and executive committees. She is a recognized leader in women’s health and has been a strong supporter of the VCU School of Nursing. Joel J. Silverman, M.D. (pictured on the right), was selected as the 2016 recipient of the Robert Irby Award. This award is presented to a faculty member who has assisted with major fundraising efforts. As the chair of the VCU Department of Psychiatry, he worked tirelessly to obtain state funding to establish a new building for the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. He has brought together donors and friends to provide unprecedented philanthropic support to the growing area of mental health. ●
Photos: CSI Studios
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IN MEMORIAM
Peter W. Brown, M.D.
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in the healthcare world and a great friend of the MCV Foundation,” said Harry Thalhimer. And that he was. Service was central to Peter’s life and career. As newlyweds, he and his wife Judy came to the MCV Campus almost 50 years ago to complete his medical internship. They moved to Charleston, South Carolina, where he served as a U.S. Navy LCDR medical officer for three years during the Vietnam War, before returning to Richmond. Peter completed his surgical residency with an American Cancer Society Surgical Oncology Fellowship and became an assistant professor in surgery at the Medical College of Virginia. He went on to practice surgery for more than 35 years with Virginia Surgical Associates. “Peter was a wonderful human being. He was a great family man, a devoted husband and father. He was a gifted surgeon and an advocate for the progress of medicine. He was an incredible resource to anybody who was sick. He would give advice and guidance or a strategy about how to deal with an illness, whether you were his patient or not. Peter was an incredible resource and a tower of strength, and he represented the MCV Foundation incredibly well,” said Austin Brockenbrough III, MCV Foundation lifetime honorary trustee. “ H E WA S A L ION
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Peter served on the Foundation board from 1996 to 2008 and received the designation of lifetime honorary trustee in 2008. He received the Irby Award in 2011 for his outstanding contributions to major fundraising efforts. “Peter was instrumental in connecting Vic Harper with the MCV Foundation to create Harper’s Hope,” said Brian Thomas, vice president and chief development officer. “Now in its third year, Harper’s Hope has raised more than $60,000 in new contributions for ALS research. “It is impossible to talk about Peter without noting his leadership role within Massey’s history,” said Gordon D. Ginder, M.D., director of VCU Massey Cancer Center. “Serving beside his mentor, Walter Lawrence Jr., M.D., Peter was one of 20 oncologists on Massey’s first official clinical team at the beginning of our cancer center program in 1974. While Peter’s long and distinguished career as a surgical oncologist provided daily evidence of his commitment to the mission of eliminating the suffering caused by cancer, his 20+ years of service as a volunteer, board member and donor to Massey provided inspirational leadership by example.” “From the day Peter came from Atlanta to what we then called MCV/VCU as a surgical intern, to the day of his
MCV Foundation
Above: Dr. Peter and Judy Brown host a Lawrence Society recognition event at their home in Richmond. Left: The volunteer leadership for the Campaign for Massey — William E. Massey Jr., Dr. Peter Brown, Rebecca C. “Becky” Massey, Matthew G. Thompson and E. Morgan Massey— stand on the grounds of the future Goodwin Research Laboratory. Photos: Courtesy of VCU Massey Cancer Center.
untimely death, he was a major contributor in every way to the success of our institution, one he considered his alma mater,” said Dr. Lawrence, founding director of VCU Massey Cancer Center. “It was such an honor for me personally to be chair when he completed his surgical training and joined our faculty in surgical oncology, where he was an outstanding teammate, both professionally and personally, and where he made significant scientific contributions. During his subsequent distinguished surgical career with our colleague, Ron Davis, both he and his beloved Judy worked continuously and vigorously to assure the success of both our institution and its participants, the Massey Cancer Center being a special focus of their activities. Peter was a fantastic person, physician, and philanthropist and, to me personally, he was a beloved surgical son. I am truly honored by the fact he always told everyone I was his surgical father.” Peter served as co-chair of the Campaign for Massey, along with William E. Massey, Matthew G. Thompson and honorary chair E. Morgan Massey. Fundraising focused on the creation of endowed chairs and research funds aimed at supporting the recruitment of 20 new researchers, as well as the construction of a state-of-the-art research facility, which
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would later be named the Goodwin Research Laboratory. The campaign ran from 2000 – 2007 and raised more than $70 million. The laboratory building provides leading-edge, adaptable space to bring together 250 experts focused on developing new treatments for various forms of cancer. VCU acknowledged this significant contribution by awarding Peter and his co-chairs each an Edward A. Wayne Medal, an honor bestowed in recognition of exceptional generosity and service to the university and the community. Peter and Judy have both served on the Massey board, and their long history of generosity has included opening their home for stewardship events, serving on numerous committees and introducing multitudes of donors to the MCV Campus. Our thoughts and deep gratitude go out to Peter’s loving wife of 49 years, Judy Simpson Brown; his daughters Charlotte Brown Woodfin, Francine Brown Mathews and Elizabeth Brown Peay; his sons-in-law, grandchildren, beloved niece, and the caring community of extended family and friends who were fortunate enough to know Peter. ●
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Harper’s Hope Golf Tournament and Auction Benefits ALS
Jamie and Landon Harper, Anne Harper, Kathryn Harper, and Frances and Michael Derrer come together to help raise funds for Harper’s Hope.
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he second annual Harper’s Hope Golf Tournament to benefit the Harper’s Hope Fund for ALS at the MCV Foundation was held at the Country Club of Virginia Tuckahoe Creek Course. The event was a success, with 150 participants attending the reception and live auction, and 92 golfers playing in the tournament. More than $40,000 was raised for the VCU ALS clinic, which provides research and care for patients and their families in Virginia. ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), often referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease,” is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. The Harper’s Hope Fund was established three years ago by the late Vic Harper and his family, with the goal of making a difference in ALS research and care. Next year’s event will take place June 16 at the same location. To learn more about the Harper’s Hope Fund for ALS, please contact Elizabeth Bunting, MCV Foundation director of special programs, at 804-628-0358 or elizabeth.bunting@vcuhealth.org. ●
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Maureen Gallihugh, Mike Harcum, Yogi Biggs and Kevin Walsh enjoy a day on the greens.
Scott Vota, D.O., VCU associate professor and interim chair of neurology, residency program director, speaks about the efforts of the Harper family to improve patient care and fund research to find a cure for ALS. Photos: Michael Hahn Photography
MCV Foundation
Discovery Series Marks Third Year
Dr. Michel Aboutanos, Dr. Michael Feldman and Dean Jerry Strauss are among the panelists for the May 17 program, “Critical Thinking about Critical Care.” Photos: Brad Howe Photography
Brian Thomas, Jane and Jim Kaplan, Bill Healy and Margaret Ann Bollmeier catch up following the panel discussion.
the Discovery Series in November 2013 to help raise the visibility of the VCU Medical Center among our friends in Williamsburg, Virginia. The response has been overwhelming. With each event, the interest and attendance continues to grow. Perhaps more importantly, VCU Medical Center has received more than 140 new patient referrals as a result of the Discovery Series. The MCV Foundation recently hosted two Discovery Series events at Two Rivers Country Club in Williamsburg. Attendance at each of these programs approached 200 guests. On May 17, VCU School of Medicine Dean Jerry Strauss led a panel discussion about the Trauma Center at VCU Health. The title of the presentation was “Critical Thinking about Critical Care.” The panel members included Michel Aboutanos, M.D., M.P.H., professor of surgery and chief of acute surgery services; Michael Feldman, M.D., associate professor and medical director of the Evans-Haynes Burn Center; Sudha Jayaraman, M.D., M.Sc., assistant professor, department of surgery; Robin Manke, R.N., B.S.N., director of emergency management and communications, VCU Health; and Joseph Ornato, M.D., professor T H E F OU N DAT ION L AU NC H E D
and chairman, department of emergency medicine. During the presentation, the panel members discussed how the goal of the VCU Trauma Center is to deliver the best care possible to the patients, no matter how challenging the circumstances, and to provide training and education to help prevent injuries and violence before they occur. On October 25, the Foundation hosted another Discovery Series program. The presentation was called “Tune Up, Clean Up and Spare Parts: Advances in Restorative Medicine.” Dean Strauss led a discussion with Steven Kates, M.D., professor and chairman, department of orthopaedic surgery; John McCarty, M.D., professor of hematology-oncology and medical director, bone marrow transplant program; Giao Phan, M.D., associate professor, division of surgical oncology; Trevor Reichman, M.D., Ph.D., —Continued on page 22
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Mel Davis, Dr. Trevor Reichman, Susan Davis, John and Paulette Culbert, and Susie Zinn attend the October 25 program on “Advances in Restorative Medicine.”
Cindy Hamrick and Louise Canfield enjoy the reception. Photos: Brad Howe Photography
associate professor of surgery, director of pediatric liver transplantation, director of living donor liver transplantation; and Leland Rogers, M.D., professor of radiation oncology. After introducing the panel members, Dean Strauss told the guests that they would learn how advances in cell biology, immunology and biomedical engineering are being applied to treat a variety of degenerative disorders, including malignancies, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, bone fractures and damaged joints. The MCV Foundation is pleased to work with a group of dedicated volunteers who serve on the Discovery Series Host Committee in Williamsburg. Members of the Host Committee include: Julie Baxter and Paul Dresser, Louise and Bob Canfield, Ginny and Charles Crone, Jane and Jim Kaplan, and Judi Woods. To learn more about the Discovery Series, please contact Brian Thomas, MCV Foundation vice president and chief development officer, at 804-828-0067 or brian.thomas@vcuhealth.org. ●
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Celebrating 62 Years of Generosity from the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation
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he VCU School of Nursing and MCV Foundation hosted a luncheon in October to thank the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation for providing nursing scholarships over the past 62 years. More than $6.7 million in scholarships has been given to the MCV Campus and VCU School of Nursing since 1954. Lettie Pate Whitehead was a beloved philanthropist and businesswoman. She married Joseph Brown Whitehead, an attorney, who had the “preposterous idea” in 1899 to bottle Coca-Cola, which was a popular fountain drink at the time. He and his business partner bought the exclusive rights to bottle and sell Coca-Cola in most of the U.S. for $1. The rest, as they say, is history. When Mr. Whitehead passed away just seven years later, Mrs. Whitehead took over her husband’s thriving bottling business and real estate interests and continued their successful trajectory. She became one of the first women in the U.S. to sit on the board of a major corporation when she was appointed a director of The Coca-Cola Company in 1934, where she served in that role until her death in 1953. Conkey Pate Whitehead, one of Mrs. Whitehead’s two sons, established the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation in his will to honor his mother’s legacy. During her life, Mrs. Whitehead exemplified a strong sense of duty to help those in need. She had a special interest in nursing and was a volunteer nurse, supporting the World War II effort. The foundation was chartered to help women in need pursue an education.
MCV Foundation
Harry Thalhimer; Herbert A. Claiborne Jr., M.D.; Herbert A. Claiborne III, J.D. (first row); Margaret Ann Bollmeier; Marsha Rappley, M.D.; Dean Jean Giddens, Ph.D., R.N. (second row); attend the scholarship luncheon.
Herbert A. Claiborne Jr., M.D., an MCV Foundation lifetime honorary trustee, has been involved with the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation for decades, and his father helped connect the foundation with VCU. “Dr. Claiborne’s grandmother and parents were among Lettie Pate Whitehead’s closest friends,” said Russ Hardin, president of the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation. “Dr. Claiborne became a trustee of the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation in 1957. For almost 60 years, he has been a conscientious steward of the Whitehead legacy. A son of the Commonwealth, he also has been an ardent supporter of VCU and numerous other schools and charitable institutions in Virginia.” This year, the foundation provided almost $500,000 in scholarships to 163 VCU School of Nursing students with an average GPA of 3.7. It is the largest annual scholarship program on the MCV Campus. In Dr. Claiborne’s words, “The long-standing relationship between the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation and the VCU School of Nursing reflects our mutual commitment to the practice of nursing and to the young women who want to pursue nursing as a career. We are delighted to be partners in serving the essential needs of the community.” On behalf of the VCU School of Nursing, Dean Jean Giddens, Ph.D., R.N., expressed thanks. “We are so grateful for the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation’s generosity to our school. The foundation’s investment helps us attract top students, including underrepresented students, as we strive to contribute to a highly talented, diverse nursing workforce.” ●
MCV Foundation
A group of nursing scholarship recipients enjoy the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation celebration luncheon in the student garden at Sadie Heath Cabaniss Hall.
Nursing students Katherine Werts and Maria Coleman express their thanks to Herbert A. Claiborne Jr., M.D., and Herbert A. Claiborne III, J.D., Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation chair and alternate trustee, respectively. Photos: Julia Rendleman, VCU University Marketing
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A Gift Given in Gratitude
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the Medical College of Virginia — now called the VCU School of Medicine — was more than the place where he earned his medical degree and completed his residency training. He credits the institution and the physicians who mentored him with shaping not only his medical career, but his values toward people and life. “I think I came to the realization one day that my medical education was an important part of who I am as a person and that I owed a great debt of gratitude, not only to MCV as an institution, but to individual mentors whom I had there,” he said. “Had it not been for their guidance and inspiration, I could not have become as successful in life as I did.” To express his gratitude, the retired gastroenterologist has set up a bequest to donate a percentage of his estate to the Alvin Zfass Fund and the Reno Vlahcevic Fund, and to establish a scholarship in his own name. Dr. Swisher said he hopes “the scholarship award would provide a recipient with the ability to finish his/her education either debt-free or with substantially less debt than he/she might otherwise have.” Dr. Swisher said that if he could share a pearl of wisdom with recipients, it would be a simple sentence he heard during his medical training: “Patients want to know that you care before Robert Swisher, M.D., hopes they care what you know.” It was a guiding printo help the next generation of ciple for him, and he hopes it will be for them. medical students through his planned giving. Photo: Courtesy of Reflecting back, Dr. Swisher is thankful that Dr. Swisher the medical school emphasized compassion and taking care of patients in a holistic way. His planned gift, he said, is “a way for me to express that gratitude and to give back in a way that might be meaningful and impactful for future generations.” By virtue of his bequest, Dr. Swisher is a member of the MCV Society, which the MCV Foundation created in 1994 to recognize individuals who have made planned gifts to benefit the MCV Campus. He has been a long-standing donor to the VCU School of Medicine over the past 30 years. The portion of his planned gift allocated to scholarships will be part of the medical school’s 1838 Campaign, which aims to increase the number and size of scholarships so the school can recruit top students, reward student excellence and reduce the burden of debt. ● F OR R OB E RT S W I S H E R , M . D. ,
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Planned Giving The thoughtful consideration of individuals like Dr. Swisher enables the MCV Campus to advance patient care, medical education and research. If you’ve named the MCV Foundation or any of our MCV Campus Partners as a beneficiary in your will, charitable trust or retirement plan, please let us know so that we can recognize your gift commitment. If you’d like more information about making a bequest or other planned giving options, please contact our director of gift planning, Jane Garnet Brown, at 804-828-4599 or janegarnet.brown@ vcuhealth.org. ●
MCV Foundation
The Weil Foundation – A Monumental Partnership to Advance Critical Care Medicine Dean Jerry Strauss III, M.D., Ph.D., and the Weil family — William Browne, M.D.; Evelyne Browne; Marianne Weil; Carol Weil, J.D.; David Medine, J.D.; Susan Weil, M.D.; and Michael Adesman, M.D., — celebrate the opening of The Weil Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Research at VCU. Photo: Julia Rendleman, VCU University Marketing
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n October, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in the Hermes A. Kontos Medical Sciences Building to celebrate the grand opening of The Weil Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Research at VCU. The institute relocated from Southern California and is widely regarded as the premier basic science cardiopulmonary resuscitation research laboratory in the world. The journey to this monumental partnership between VCU and The Weil Institute began in January 2015, explained Francis L. Macrina, Ph.D., vice president for research and innovation. The institute sought an academic medical center partner, and the board unanimously chose VCU due to its excellent clinical and resuscitation programs, including initiatives such as VCU’s Advanced Resuscitation, Cooling Therapeutics and Intensive Care (ARCTIC) program. The Weil Institute is led by Wanchun Tang, M.D., director, who has been with the organization since 1996, and co-deputy directors Joseph Ornato, M.D., chair of the department of emergency medicine at VCU School of Medicine, and Mary Ann Peberdy, M.D., medical director for VCU’s ARCTIC post resuscitation center. “The university and health system have worked over the
MCV Foundation
last several years to develop a state-of-the-art, world-renowned resuscitation program, and the ability for us to do clinical research was very sound, but we lacked the ability to have a basic research science laboratory that would allow us to do bi-directional, translational research,” said Dr. Peberdy. “The merger of the two allows us to have one of the strongest translational research labs around.” Translational research, Dr. Peberdy explained, is vital because it allows the rapid development of novel therapies to improve patient outcomes, and the ability to develop and deliver lifesaving therapies more efficiently and effectively. The Weil Institute was founded by Max Harry Weil, M.D., Ph.D., a pioneer in critical care medicine. Under his direction, it became one of the most prolific and productive basic research science institutes in critical care research globally. Marianne Weil, Dr. Weil’s widow, who represents the Weil Family Foundation, attended the grand opening and presented a gift for the new institute. Jerome F. Strauss III, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the VCU School of Medicine, expressed his incredible gratitude, calling the new institute “the centerpiece of research in clinical care at this institution.” ●
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Massey Celebrates its Donors
Travis Massey; Luciana Massey; Will Massey; VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D.; Becky Massey and Monica Rao catch up at the event.
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elebrating Massey, an annual event recognizing donors to VCU Massey Cancer Center, was held in November at the James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center on the MCV Campus. As part of Massey’s recently completed Research for Life Campaign, the cancer center and the VCU School of Medicine collaborated to provide private funding for the McGlothlin Medical Education Center. The state-of-the-art building provides space for the training of new medical students and more than 26,000 square feet of research space for the cancer center. The Massey Research Pavilion, spanning the top two floors of the building, serves as the hub of research for hematology and oncology, clinical trials,
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
and cancer prevention and control. Throughout the evening, donors were given the chance to tour the pavilion and learn more about how donations fuel the leading-edge research occurring at Massey. The event also included a special tribute to the 25th anniversary of Massey Club, an annual giving society that recognizes donors who give $1,000 or more in a single year. Massey Club was founded by a dedicated group of loyal donors, many of whom remain active, including leadership on Massey’s advisory board. Massey’s generous founders and all those they have inspired to join Massey Club over the years have been instrumental in raising more than $16 million in unrestricted support. ●
MCV Foundation
James and Megan Rose, and Bill and Marla McAllister tour the Massey Research Pavilion.
William A. Jiranek, M.D.; Bruce Mathern, M.D.; Michael Rao, Ph.D.; Marsha Rappley, M.D.; John Duval; and Kevin Hoover, M.D., Ph.D. (left to right); celebrate the opening of the N.O.W. Center. Photo: Julia Rendleman, VCU University Marketing.
Runners of all ability levels can improve their health and form at the VCU Run Lab. Photo: Allen Jones, VCU University Marketing.
MCV Foundation
Margaret Ann Bollmeier; Harry Thalhimer; Harry Bear, M.D., PH.D.; Bertha Rolfe, R.Ph.; and Robin Partin celebrate Massey’s fundraising success. Photos: Courtesy of VCU Massey Cancer Center.
VCU Health’s N.O.W Center Keeps Patients Moving T H E VC U H E A LT H N EU R O S C I E NC E , Orthopaedic and Wellness Center,
also known as the N.O.W. Center, recently opened near Short Pump Town Center, just outside of Richmond. The five-story, 111,000-square-foot building has more than 80 exam rooms and offers a unique, interdisciplinary approach to help restore movement to patients. With multiple subspecialties all in one building, the design puts the focus on the patient experience. Patients can receive all the care they need in one day at one location. The center offers expertise in neurosurgery (preand post-surgical care), neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, sports medicine, endocrinology and physical medicine and rehabilitation. “As the leading healthcare system in the Commonwealth, making healthcare accessible is part of our mission,” said Michael Rao, Ph.D., president of Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Health System. “The N.O.W. Center is purposefully located in an area experiencing rapid population growth with diverse needs.” ●
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Chronicle of Giving | MCV Campus News
The Children’s Pavilion Opens its Doors
The Children’s Pavilion is a shining example of the innovation taking place on the MCV Campus.
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of Richmond at VCU celebrated the opening of its new Children’s Pavilion — the largest, most advanced outpatient facility for children in the region. The 15-story, 640,000-square-foot facility provides coordinated care by offering nearly all pediatric outpatient services under one roof. The pod design provides increased collaboration for care, while still offering easy navigation for patients. The pavilion was designed with the unique needs of children and their families in mind, and includes a curb-free drop-off area, Ronald McDonald House Sibling Center, Sky Terrace, interactive displays, lactation rooms and plenty of parking in a 600-space garage. T H E C H I L DR E N ’ S HO S PI TA L
“The new outpatient children’s pavilion was built on a vision,” said John Duval, advisor and former vice president for clinical services and CEO, VCU Hospitals, VCU Health System. “A vision informed by a changing healthcare landscape — which indicated that the demand for outpatient children’s health services will outpace the need for inpatient care. And a vision inspired by our unrelenting commitment to make the patient and family experience second to none.” Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU is Central Virginia’s only comprehensive, full-service children’s hospital and Virginia’s only Level I pediatric trauma center. ●
A patient’s family enjoys the Sibling Room. Photos: Allen Jones, VCU University Marketing
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Dean Jerry Strauss Steps Down
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Jerry Strauss III, M.D, Ph.D. Photo: Allen Jones, VCU University Marketing
DE A N JER RY STR AUSS III, M.D., PH.D.,
announced his intent to step down as the longest-serving full-time dean of VCU School of Medicine so that he can focus on his funded research program. He was named the school’s 23rd dean in 2005. We were fortunate to have someone of Dean Strauss’ caliber on the MCV Campus. Prior to coming here, he built a national reputation as a clinician and researcher during his 35 years at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Throughout his tenure as dean at VCU, Dean Strauss maintained his own active, NIH-funded research program in the field of reproductive medicine. With more than 300 original scientific articles to his credit, he has been honored repeatedly at home and abroad for his work. He is an elected member of the Institute of Medicine and holds 12 issued U.S. patents for discoveries in diagnostics and therapeutics. During his 11 years at VCU, the Molecular Medicine Research Building and the McGlothlin Medical Education Center were opened, $352.5 million has been raised in philanthropic dollars, and the school of medicine’s research funding grew to $131.5 million last year. Dean Strauss arranged the timing of his departure announcement after VCU School of Medicine received full, eight-year accreditation from the Liaison Com-
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mittee on Medical Education. “Jerry has truly been a game changer for the Foundation, VCU Health and the MCV Campus,” said Harry Thalhimer. “His level of excellence has transformed our school of medicine, elevated the international reputation of our faculty, and set the standard for an incredibly bright future for us. He’s done great things and we will miss him, but we’re delighted he’s going to stay involved with the Foundation.” “Dean Strauss has played a key role in the success of our Discovery Series in Williamsburg,” said Margaret Ann Bollmeier. “He has skillfully led the panel discussions for each of our programs during the past three years. We are so pleased that Jerry will continue to be part of these important events.” Faculty have already established the Dean Jerry Strauss Scholarship fund in his honor, as medical student scholarships were a priority for Dean Strauss from his first days on campus. If you would like to contribute, please contact Brian Thomas at 804-828-0067 or brian.thomas@vcuhealth.org. His successor, Peter F. Buckley, M.D., assumed the role of dean on January 17. Dr. Buckley comes to VCU from the Medical College of Georgia, where he spent the last 16 years, serving as dean since 2011. We will feature Dr. Buckley in our next issue. ●
MCV Foundation
John Duval Announces Retirement
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John Duval. Photo: Allen Jones, VCU University Marketing
ohn Duval, CEO of VCU Hospitals and Clinics and vice president for clinical affairs, announced his retirement after 13 years at VCU Health. He will continue to serve in an advisory role through March, and assist on health policy issues during the 2017 Virginia legislative session. During his time at VCU Health, his significant accomplishments have included construction of the Critical Care Hospital, opening of the Children’s Pavilion, recognition of VCU Medical Center as one of the best hospitals in the country with a top ranking in Virginia, and improvements in safety that resulted in receiving the 2014 AHA-McKesson Quest for Quality Prize. “John Duval has played an integral role in our fundraising efforts over the years that have benefitted the hospitals and clinical programs,” said Margaret Ann Bollmeier, MCV Foundation president. “He has had a strong relationship with our staff and our board, and we have a great deal of respect for his leadership and many achievements.” “His stalwart leadership sets an example for anyone who follows,” noted Harry Thalhimer, MCV Foundation board chair. “Not only did he represent VCU Health incredibly well in the broader community, he ran the hospital with a total commitment to safety, patient care and excellence. He has been a tremendous friend to the MCV Foundation.” Deborah Davis was appointed as John’s replacement in October and has been with VCU Health for the past nine years as chief operating officer — another sign of John’s strong leadership in planning for the succession of his position. Stay tuned for an article featuring Deborah in our next issue. ●
Make It Real Campaign The Make It Real campaign has raised more than $450 million toward its goal of $750 million, but we still have a long way to go. Your gift, no matter the size, helps make possible the lifesaving work occurring on the MCV Campus every day. Please consider helping a student achieve his or her medical education, supporting a researcher develop the latest cure for a disease or funding the world-class care available right here in our community. Contact Brian Thomas at 804-828-0067 or brian.thomas@vcuhealth.org to learn more. ●
MCV Foundation
Chronicle of Giving | Winter 2016-2017
31
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