William Newton Healthcare Foundation Raises $50k, Announces $500k Match
Nov 20, 2024
Vaught Honored as Healthcare Hero
William Newton Healthcare Foundation hosted its 17th annual fundraising event on November 2 presented by Union State Bank and held at Behr Rafters in Winfield. Just over $50,000 was raised benefiting William Newton Hospital. In addition, Winfield Economic Development provided a five-to-one match of up to $100,000 for funds raised during the live auction.
Also announced was an anonymous donor offering a $500,000 dollar-for-dollar match between November 3 and December 31. Each of these funds benefits phase two of the Second Century Campaign for the emergency department expansion.
"This year's gala has shown us just how deeply our hospital is woven into the fabric of our community. The outpouring of support from our donors, sponsors, and volunteers will help us build a brighter future for our patients,” Foundation Executive Director Annika Morris reflected, “We're excited to see our expanded emergency department become a reality sooner thanks to their generosity."
The James Bond-themed gala dubbed ‘Operation: Black Tie,’ included entertainment and silent and live auctions. Attendees were encouraged to dress to the theme, and over 175 guests were treated to a four-course meal catered by Creekstone Farms, Winfield Country Club, and Grouse Valley Grill. The evening was highlighted with live music by the Student Loans.
A ‘Bubbles & Bling’ raffle was held, sponsored by Barrel & Bottle, Bing Brothers, and Schmidt Jewelers. Guests who bought a glass of Prosecco (Italian white wine) were entered into a drawing for a white gold and black and white diamond pendant. A silent auction offered 17 packages for bidding, and the live auction for 15 packages was conducted by auctioneer Rick Hopper.
Union State Bank Winfield and Udall Market President Cory Helmer announced that the 2024 Healthcare Hero Award was given to Dick Vaught.
Helmer touted the former William Newton Hospital administrator’s “servant leadership, financial acumen, and determination to help the hospital not just to survive but to thrive.”
He acknowledged Vaught’s work enabling the hospital’s current administration and employees to continue a legacy of quality patient care.
Vaught joined the hospital in 1978 in the position of controller and was promoted to assistant administrator in 1982. When his predecessor retired in 1990, he stepped into the administrator role.
Helmer added that for over 34 years at the hospital, Vaught “consistently and effectively navigated changing healthcare regulations, responded to community needs, and weathered unexpected challenges. He displayed a clear vision for what WNH could become and the important, positive impact it would continue to have on our community.”
During his tenure, Vaught oversaw many improvements at William Newton Hospital, including a two-story addition to the north end of the east wing, the establishment of home health, the establishment of the rural health clinics, the creation of the Winfield Healthcare Center, building the Physicians Pavilion, and updates to several departments. Helmer also praised his commitment to his team, such as championing initiatives to prioritize employee well-being and a willingness to listen that made everyone feel valued and heard.
Other notable career achievements included membership to the Kansas Healthcare Financial Management Association, service as a board member of the Kansas Hospital Association and Creative Community Living, and service as a director of Preferred Health Systems.
When asked about the proudest moments of his tenure at William Newton Hospital, Vaught noted its successful transition to a critical access hospital, helping the townspeople of Moline with building the clinic and installing radiography capabilities, and the creation of the William Newton Healthcare Foundation. As a chartered member of the foundation, he was involved in the first successful campaign raising $2 million over five years for the hospital’s acute and critical care wing, also known as 2-East.
Vaught retired in 2012, but his service to William Newton Hospital continues. Both Vaught and his wife Nancy remain supportive of the William Newton Healthcare Foundation. He is currently a foundation board member and assists with committees for retired employees and provider engagement.
Contact the William Newton Healthcare Foundation or contribute to the year-end matching opportunity.
Posted in Beats Go On , Emergency Care , Foundation , In The News on Nov 20, 2024