More than 1,000 guests were in attendance at our Pizzazz gala on October 18, as Dr. David F. Perse, President and CEO, kicked off the yearlong 150th anniversary celebration.
Held at Public Auditorium, the biennial event set the stage for a remarkable celebration of a legacy that began on October 10, 1865. Founded by the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, St. Vincent Charity is the oldest private hospital in Cleveland. The history of Cleveland and St. Vincent Charity Medical Center are not independent of one another. A city is people; a hospital is people—the story of the past century and a half is the story of how these people have helped each other.
At our gala event, we were proud to present the Honorable Frank G. Jackson, Mayor of the City of Cleveland, with the St. Vincent de Paul Award, given to friends, supporters and community leaders who best exemplify the spirit of St. Vincent, an apostle of charity. "(Mayor Jackson), a native son of the Central neighborhood, through your work and your support, you have made lifelong friends here at St. Vincent Charity Medical Center," said Sister Judith Ann Karam, CSA, Congregational Leader and Honorary Chair of the 150th anniversary celebration.
Also honored with the St. Vincent de Paul Corporate Award was KeyBank, represented by Christopher M. Gorman, President of Key Corporate Bank. "KeyBank’s support has benefitted not only our Pizzazz efforts, but also our internal programs and services as well as signature capital improvements," said Karam.
In addition to raising more than $750,000 to support St. Vincent Charity, the evening culminated with remarks and toast honoring the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine given by David F. Perse, MD, president and CEO. "The Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine have given this city so much--their mission, their prayer, their compassion and their devotion. We stand in awe and all we can say is, thank you for your devotion to your mission," said Perse.
Events are planned throughout the anniversary year. A Christmas Tree Lighting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3 on the front lawn of the hospital. The event is free and open to the public.
Complete information about the 150th anniversary can be found at www.stv150.org.