William Newton Healthcare Foundation Shatters Fundraising Goal

Oct 19, 2023

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Radcliff Receives Healthcare Hero Award

William Newton Healthcare Foundation hosted its 16th annual fundraising event on October 7 presented by Union State Bank and held at Behr Rafters in Winfield. Exceeding its goal of $80,000 and setting a new event record, the foundation raised over $150,000 benefiting phase two of William Newton Hospital’s Second Century Campaign for the emergency department expansion.

William Newton Healthcare Foundation Executive Director Annika Morris reflected on this record-breaking year:

“This event is proof of how important our hospital is to the community and how important philanthropic support is to the hospital. I thank all the donors, sponsors, and volunteers, for not only making our annual gala a success but for making a huge impact toward ensuring our hospital is here for another 100 years.”

Themed ‘Denim & Diamonds,’ the gala included entertainment and silent and live auctions. Attendees were encouraged to dress to the theme, and over 160 guests were treated to a four-course meal catered by Dawn Williams and Creekstone Farms. The evening was highlighted with live music by Brody Caster.

A ‘Bubbles & Bling’ raffle was held, sponsored by Bob’s Liquor and Schmidt Jewelers. Guests who bought a glass of Prosecco (Italian white wine) were entered into a drawing for a white gold and diamond necklace. A silent auction offered 17 packages for bidding, and the live auction for 15 packages was conducted by auctioneer Rick Hopper. One package sold for $100,000 thanks to a generous contribution by Winfield Economic Development.

During the event, Morris connected the diamond theme to the mission of the hospital:

"Formed under pressure, diamonds are a symbol of strength, love, and good health, all things our team at William Newton Hospital has been committed to providing for our community for nearly 100 years.”

Union State Bank Winfield and Udall Market President Cory Helmer announced that the 2023 Healthcare Hero Award was given to Paula Radcliff.

A Dexter native, Radcliff was born and raised in Wichita and moved to Cowley County in 1974. For five decades, her service, leadership, and contributions impacted William Newton Hospital and the citizens it serves.

She and her late husband, Kent, were deeply involved with the ranching community. Their ranch, Radcliff Land and Cattle, hosted multiple cattle and ranching events, including the National Rifle Association’s Women on Target, Youth Hunters Challenge, and events for Future Farmers of America. Radcliff has actively promoted Kansas beef as a Kansas Cow Belle and appeared regularly on the Joyce Livingston TV show demonstrating recipes prepared with Kansas Beef.

When not busy at the ranch or living the life of a Kansas Cow Belle, she has taken on new business opportunities. In 1991, Radcliff purchased Dexter Automotive, a distributor of smokeless powder. Renamed Powder Valley Services, Radcliff plunged herself into a firearm reloading components business, an industry dominated by males, with no knowledge of reloading ammunition. She owned Powder Valley Services for eight years before selling the business in 2000. Her business practice created a strong footprint for Powder Valley to continue growth in the industry.

Noel Richardson, Radcliff’s daughter, provided insight into her business and civic pursuits:

“When my mother sees a need for her family or the community, she seeks a solution. She made her presence known in the ranching and reloading world even when this was not where women were leaders. She will work tirelessly to see a plan through, all the while making sure her family knows they come first. Her determination, drive, and giving nature are beyond admirable.”

Radcliff’s commitment to William Newton Hospital began on the ranch when her son Ryan was seriously injured. While others rallied into action, Radcliff fainted and awoke when the family was already driving Ryan to the emergency room 20 miles away. After seeing the need for rural emergency healthcare access firsthand, Radcliff became an emergency medical technician (EMT). For 26 years, she served as an EMT for William Newton Hospital helping those needing medical attention, particularly in rural areas.

Some of Radcliff’s many contributions to the William Newton Healthcare Foundation include serving on the board of directors, co-chairing the Second Century Campaign for the newly expanded H. L. Snyder Medical Foundation Surgery Center, co-chairing the foundation’s Beats Go On Community Wellness Initiative, and funding and guiding the Radcliff Lecture Series on Rural Health.

Steve McSpadden, who co-chaired the surgery center campaign with Radcliff, shared:

“I’ve never seen the likes of Paula who as a volunteer has served in so many ways and is steadfast in her dedication to helping, no matter what the adversity.”

In describing Radcliff, Helmer noted:

“Paula is a true leader who knows how to get things done!”

Learn more about the William Newton Healthcare Foundation