FY25 Annual Report

Message from Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation Board Chair:

"Piedmont Athens Regional strives each and every day to make a positive impact in Athens and our surrounding communities by providing outstanding healthcare and improving the wellbeing of our patients and others. That is made possible only through the generosity of our loyal donors. As we celebrate the Foundation’s 40th anniversary this year, we are reminded of that steadfast generosity and support of donors like you over the years who have made such a difference." - Jody Patton

Message from Piedmont Athens Regional Chief Executive Officer:

"This year, we recognize an important milestone: the 40th anniversary of the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation. Over the past four decades, the Foundation has played a key role in supporting hospital growth by funding equipment, facility improvements and expansions, and advancing patient care programs. The continued support from our donors makes our work possible and has a daily impact on the lives of so many of our neighbors and friends. I’m also proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of the team at Piedmont Athens Regional. This year, we’ve earned national recognition across multiple specialties, including:

• Our 10th consecutive “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group
• Newsweek’s Best Maternity Hospital and World’s Best Hospitals 2025
• Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospital by Premier, Inc.
• Women’s Choice Award Best Hospital
• Certifications and accreditations in Diabetes Education, Orthotics and Prosthetics, Echocardiography, Advanced Knee & Hip Replacement, and Cardiac Center of Excellence
• The HeartFlow CT Quality Award

1980’s - Established in 1985

In 1985, a group of community volunteers joined with the administration of Athens General Hospital to establish a philanthropic foundation dedicated to supporting programs and acquiring equipment beyond the hospital’s financial reach. Today, the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation continues that legacy with a clear and focused mission: to make a positive difference in every life we touch. As part of Piedmont’s not-for-profit healthcare system, the Foundation’s primary role is to generate essential philanthropic revenue that sustains and enhances services at Piedmont Athens Regional. Through strategic fundraising and donor engagement, we help ensure our hospital remains equipped to deliver exceptional care, expand access, and respond to the evolving healthcare needs of our community.

1990’s – A Look Back at the Guest Houses

In the late 1990s, the Board of Directors at then Athens Regional led a campaign to raise funds for the creation of the Guest Houses. These accommodations were created to provide a place of respite for family members while their loved ones were hospitalized. Before the era of home rentals available via smartphone apps, families faced limited options if they couldn’t easily return home or were in emergency situations. Since 2013, the Guest Houses at Piedmont Athens Regional have welcomed 3,650 guests, providing a total of 14,676 nights of stay. In the past fiscal year alone, we registered 225 guests who spent 740 nights with us. The fundraising efforts in the '90s successfully raised more than $650,000 to fully establish the Guest Houses.

2000’s – Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support: A Legacy of Care

Since its dedication in 2000, the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support (LSCCS) has been committed to assisting patients facing a cancer diagnosis through a variety of classes, programs, workshops, and seminars. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can impose a significant financial burden, even for those with insurance. LSCCS aims to uplift cancer patients during their treatment journey by offering weekly support groups, healing arts, complimentary therapies, and individual appointments. Twenty-five years later, LSCCS remains dedicated to providing all services at no cost to anyone who walks through its doors.

2010’s – Establishing the Community Care Clinic and Graduate Medical Education Program

Piedmont Athens Regional’s Community Care Clinic was founded in 2016 to offer services to patients in the community, regardless of their insurance status. The clinic provides a range of services, including regular check-ups, sick visits, immunizations/vaccinations, chronic illness management, behavioral health support, and follow-up care after hospital discharges. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, the clinic is staffed by a dedicated team of physicians, pharmacists, nurses, social workers, financial counselors, and community educators.

In 2021, following a planned estate gift from Dr. Jim Clay—who served as the medical director of the laboratory at Piedmont Athens Regional for over 35 years—the clinic was named the Clay Community Care Clinic in his honor. Dr. Clay’s legacy of teaching and service continues to inspire the clinic’s mission to create a lasting positive impact on the health and well-being of our community.

Additionally, Piedmont Athens Regional welcomed its first class of Graduate Medical Education residents in 2019 who support the Clay Community Care Clinic and Community Care Clinic locations in Royston and W. Broad St. in Athens. Since 2019, around 115 residents have graduated from the program, with 57% of graduates currently practicing in the state of Georgia.

2020’s – The Tower Campaign

Just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, Piedmont Athens Regional broke ground on a transformative $194 million expansion and renovation project of our century-old hospital structure. As the pandemic unfolded, bringing unprecedented challenges—from staffing shortages and supply chain disruptions to the urgent need for vaccines—our vision for the future remained steadfast. Thanks to the unwavering support of our philanthropic community, we were able to continue construction and maintain momentum during one of the most difficult periods in modern healthcare. In the spring of 2022, we proudly opened the doors to our new seven-story, state-of-the-art patient tower, featuring modern patient rooms and advanced medical technology. This milestone reflects not only a major investment in our facilities, but also the generosity and commitment of donors who believe in our mission to make a positive difference in every life we touch.

Mint Jubilee: The Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation recently welcomed more than 260 community members to its 10th annual derby-themed Mint Jubilee, held at Live Wire Athens in downtown Athens. This year’s event raised over $221,000 for the Foundation’s Unrestricted Gifts Fund, which supports patient programs and the purchase of medical equipment.

Celebrate Generosity:

Each year, Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation along with our executive team is proud to highlight donors that have made significant contributions to Piedmont Athens Regional over the past fiscal year. On October 2^nd, we brought together the newest members of the Cornerstone Society, Heritage Circle, and Founders Society, along with the physicians who have been honored with a gift in their name over the past year. We are proud to acknowledge the difference makers below who make a positive difference in the health and wellbeing of our community.

New Founders Society Members

• Ms. Virginia McKenna and Mr. Art Archibald
• Dr. and Mrs. Joel T. Bowen
• Mr. and Mrs. James M. Burnett, Sr.
• Mr. and Mrs. William M. Corry
• Mrs. Doris Ramsey, Posthumously

New Cornerstone Society Members

• Anonymous
• Ms. Virginia McKenna and Mr. Art Archibald
• Mr. and Mrs. Barry Cohen
• Mr. and Mrs. Steve Middlebrooks
• Dr. and Mrs. Stephen L. Morgan Jr.
• Dr. Harshang J. Patel
• Mr. and Mrs. Scott Phelan
• Mr. and Mrs. Michael Seibert

Helene Schwartz Foundation Champion Award:

The Helene M. Schwartz Foundation Champion Award was established in 2021 to honor individuals whose generosity and commitment have made a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our community. Named in honor of Helene Schwartz, who led the Foundation for more than two decades, this award celebrates those who embody her spirit of service and philanthropy.

This year, we are proud to recognize Dr. Ben Wilson and Zoie Wilson as the 2025 recipients of the Helene M. Schwartz Foundation Champion Award. Ben, a gynecologic oncology surgeon at Piedmont Athens Regional, and Zoie, his wife and partner in service, exemplify what it means to be champions of care. Together, they are raising their two children, Pryor and Logan, while continually asking, “What else can we do?”—a question that has led to meaningful impact across our hospital.

Zoie has played a vital role in shaping our Foundation events, lending her creativity and leadership on the planning committee for our upcoming Champions of Care Gala in January. Ben serves on the Foundation Board and is a trusted physician leader—always willing to lend his voice, time, and expertise to support our mission. His team is deeply engaged with the Foundation, enthusiastically supporting new initiatives and helping us extend our reach. Their philanthropic support has touched many lives, especially through gifts to the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, two areas that reflect their compassion and commitment to healing. Like Helene Schwartz, Ben and Zoie lead with heart, vision, and an unwavering belief in the power of generosity to transform lives.

Champions of Care Gala:

We are proud to introduce our inaugural Champions of Care Gala, presented by Athens Radiology Associates, designed to recognize the relentless dedication of everyone within our walls and our in our community, including our key partners, the University of Georgia Athletics and the Athens Rock Lobsters, who support Piedmont Athens Regional. On January 24, 2026, guests will gather for a night celebrating our employees, physicians, nurses, donors and community supporters. As a not-for-profit healthcare system, we rely on the generosity of donors, to make many of our programs possible. Every patient who visits a Piedmont facility is impacted by the donors whose support makes it possible to buy new equipment, improve facilities, and expand research and education programs.

Employee Giving:

At Piedmont Athens Regional, care goes beyond medicine—it’s a commitment to compassion, innovation and community. Every day, our team members bring hope and healing to those we serve. And through our employee giving program, Count Me In | GIFT, more than 1,600 dedicated employees extend that care even further—by giving back. Their generosity fuels transformative change across our hospital and community. In fiscal year 2025, Count Me In | GIFT donors made a positive difference by:

• Providing over $50,000 in emergency aid to colleagues facing unexpected hardship through the Employee Disaster Relief Fund
• Advancing patient care with $40,000 in grants for innovative team-led projects at Piedmont Athens Regional
• Investing in the future of nursing through support for the Nurse Extern program
• Supporting oncology patients with free wellness programs and critical medication assistance through the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support

Together, we’re building a healthier, more compassionate future—one gift at a time. Thank you to each Count Me In | GIFT donor for making a difference where it matters most. “My department has been awarded funds to purchase training manikins and care seats for Safe Kids education classes. I love giving back to support this program and make a positive difference!” – April D, “I give because I have seen the impact it has on my patients!” - Karyn A., “I give because I had to ask for help one time early in my career at Athens Regional. I was provided with the assistance I needed quickly and without question. I contribute to GIFT to help others in the same way no matter how large or small the need!” - Brian O., and “It is so nice to know these funds are available when a patient or employee of the Piedmont family is in need of assistance.” - Lisa W.

National Grateful Patient Day:

Each year on National Grateful Patient Day, September 7, we celebrate Piedmont’s commitment to quality patient care which stems from our purpose to make a positive difference in every life we touch. It is because of our patients that we are dedicated to driving clinical excellence across the state of Georgia and beyond. On National Grateful Patient Day 2024, Piedmont Athens Regional received 145 donations, raising more than $117,000 to support vital patient programs. Each expression of gratitude is a powerful testament to the profound relationships our employees cultivate with our patients – built on trust, care, and gratitude. Our team at Piedmont Athens Regional was deeply moved by the messages we received on National Grateful Patient Day, each one a story in its own right. These stories, among many others, remind us of the profound impact that compassionate, exceptional care can have to a community. We are grateful to donors who invest in our mission to strive for clinical excellence every day while honoring the care teams who make it possible. To learn more about the stories and support behind National Grateful Patient Day, visit piedmont.org/gratitude.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation was able to fund a comprehensive Infrastructure and Master Facility Plan — a strategic assessment of our hospital’s physical spaces and critical systems. While this work may not always be visible to patients and families, it is foundational to the exceptional care we provide. This plan evaluates the condition and capacity of our facilities — from the mechanical and electrical systems that keep our hospital running, to the layout and flow of our clinical and patient spaces.

This will ensure that every element of our physical environment supports the delivery of safe, high-quality care and exceptional outcomes. This investment directly supports our mission to make a positive difference in every life we touch. By funding this essential assessment, donors are helping us build a hospital environment that empowers our caregivers, enhances the patient experience, and supports innovation and excellence at every level.

Just as important, this project prepares us for our next phase of growth. With a clear, data-informed roadmap, we are poised to respond to the evolving healthcare needs of our community — expanding our services, optimizing our space, and continuing to provide the kind of care that transforms lives. Your support makes this possible. Through this initiative, philanthropy is helping to shape not just the future of our campus, but the future of healthcare in Athens and beyond.

Cancer Care Services

• 3,625 patient consultations provided at no charge to individuals facing a cancer diagnosis
• $9,175 in transportation assistance offered to patients without access to reliable transportation for medical appointments
• $13,500 in medication assistance to un/underinsured patients
• 65 bags of food distributed to patients experiencing food insecurity
• 462 healing and wellness classes offered - including tai chi, hypnotherapy and mindfulness classes

Women's and Children's Services

• 3,000 babies delivered at Piedmont Athens Regional - a 4% increase from the previous fiscal year
• 10 parent support programs and classes offered, including baby care basics, breastfeeding guidance, childbirth preparation, and more
• Expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) services with the addition of 2 new bays, enhancing care for our increased patient population

Community Care Clinic + Graduate Medical Education (GME)

• 155 Medications provided to 45 patients
• 19 Internal Medicine Residents graduated in our most recent class, ready to serve with skill and compassion
• 57% of GME alumni are now practicing in Georgia

Community Wellness

• 350 moments of shared knowledge through nutrition guidance, screenings, workplace wellness initiatives, and more
• 180 instances of bringing care directly to our communities, including wellness fairs and Safe Kids programming
• 110 safety presentations delivered to community leaders, schools, and parents
• 200 car seat safety inspections
• 60 car seats provided to families in need, ensuring every child has a safer ride

• Count Me In | GIFT – Count Me In | Getting Involved for Tomorrow is Piedmont Athens Regional’s employee giving program.
• The Cornerstone Society - Recognizes donors who have given or committed a gift of at least $10,000 to benefit Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation.
• The Corporate Honor Roll - Recognizes the Foundation’s corporate partners who have given cumulative donations of $25,000 or more.
• The Founders Society - Membership in the Founders Society is based on the donor’s cumulative giving to Piedmont Athens Regional. This society recognizes those generous donors who assist Piedmont Athens Regional in fulfilling its mission of providing the highest level of medical care.
• The Heritage Circle - Recognizes and honors generous supporters who have made provisions in their estate plans to benefit Piedmont Athens Regional.

Sacred Space Dedication – During the Piedmont Athens Regional Main Tower Campaign in 2022, Kathryn and Carl Nichols generously contributed a gift to name this space and its adjacent garden, with a request to continue honoring the memory of Mr. Jordan.

Threads of Generosity: Stitched Together by Community – Corrine knows a thing or two about impact. As the President of the Oglethorpe Lions Club, she coordinates donations of pajamas for children in the hospital at Piedmont Athens Regional.

Former Hospital Volunteer Reconnects with Piedmont Athens Regional Surgeon Who Cared for His Daughter – “Our appreciation of Piedmont Athens Regional runs deep.” – Tony Ferguson, former Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation board member.

The New Dr. William Tumlin Fund Supports Individuals Facing Addiction – While running his family practice, Dr. Tumlin dedicated himself to the study of Addiction Medicine in the late 1980s, launching several recovery programs in the Athens area: The Commencement Center, the Cobb House, 24th Street, and Apex Recovery.

A Pillar of the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support – John recognized the need for more programs and opportunities to support people of color facing cancer. As a Black male survivor—and later, a Black man living with cancer—he started a support group with the hope that his journey could be a light for others. He remained actively involved in these programs until his passing.

We are grateful to our Partners in Healthcare, our corporate sponsors, who make significant contributions to our hospital each year to invest in the health and wellbeing of our community. Thank you to our Fiscal Year 2025 Partners in Healthcare for making a positive difference!

Foundation Staff

Steven L. Dasher, CFRE, Executive Director
Elaine P. Cook, Director of Major Gifts
Nicole Papst Vashi, CFRE, Manager of Sustained Giving
Sierra Hammock, Sr. Donor Relations Specialist

Senior Executive Leadership

J. Michael Burnett, Chief Executive Officer
Jason Smith, Chief Operations Officer
Justin Roberts, Chief Financial Officer
Geoffrey Marx, M.D., Chief Medical Officer
Jeremiah Bame, RN, Chief Nursing Officer

Foundation Board of Directors

Catherine Apaloo, M.D.
Rev. Daryl Bloodsaw, Ph. D.
J. Michael Burnett
Sherry Carson
Scott Collins, Vice Chair
Kathy Hoard, Past Chair
Nathan Hriczo
Kelly Kerner
Jody Patton, Chair
Barbara Parks
Justin Roberts
Jennifer Scott
Leslie Sinyard
April Sorrow
Jenny Terrell
Xernona Thomas, Ph.D.
Ronald Walpert, M.D.
Benjamin Wilson, M.D.
Jennifer Zwirn

Hospital Board of Directors

Karl Barnett, M.D.
Philip E. Bettendorf, Chair
Kevin Brown
J. Michael Burnett
Carolann Eisenhart, M.D.
Kelly C. Grow, M.D.
Roswell Lawrence, Jr., Ph.D.
Michael J. Mandl
Helen Mills, Ed.D., Vice Chair
David M. Sailors, M.D.

Hospital Authority of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia

Karl Barnett, M.D.
Jeff Bishop
Bill Bland
Chandra Echols
Kelly C. Grow, M.D.
Roswell Lawrence, Jr., Ph.D.
Helen H. Mills, Ed.D.
Cecilia Santibanez
Peter Shedd