On June 19th, over 100 guests joined in congratulating four very deserving honorees, who were recognized for philanthropic and volunteer efforts on behalf of Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center.
After an elegant cocktail reception, guests moved to Centennial Hall for the awards presentation where family, friends and donors applauded the contributions of the recipients.
When it comes to corporate stewardship – PSE&G remains steadfast in their commitment to community through philanthropic and humanitarian endeavors. For over twenty years, PSE&G has been a generous and loyal benefactor of Muhlenberg, donating more than $115,000 to the hospital’s continuum of services. For this very reason, PSE&G was chosen to receive the 2007 Lowell F. Johnson Award for Philanthropic Service. As he presented the award to John R. Smith, President of PSEG Foundation, - Sr. Vice President of the Muhlenberg Foundation, John Nolan, expressed the hospital’s deep appreciation for PSE&G’s many contributions. “It is a pleasure to have this partnership with PSE&G – they continue to step up to the plate year after year, providing funds that are essential to the hospital’s programs and services.”
Foundation Trustee, Joseph Ciufo, humbly accepted the William Augustus Muhlenberg Award for individual service, which was presented by Peter Pogany, R.P. Peter considered it a privilege to have been chosen to present the award to Joe - stating that “not only is Joe a colleague and fellow board member, he is my friend.” Joe has a long history with Muhlenberg – as he and several members of his family were born at the hospital. In addition to his service on the Muhlenberg Foundation Board of Trustees, Joe dedicates his time and talent to the Foundation’s annual golf outing, and has served on the committees for the Evening at the Improv and Casino Night. “I’ve acquired a skill set for blowing up balloons,”, he joked. As a Vice President with PNC Wealth Management, Joe has counseled the Foundation on asset management, recruited the support of private foundations and secured grants for the hospital and its affiliates. “Joe gives so much of himself to the Foundation and Medical Center, though he does it in a quiet way” stated John Nolan.
Mari Bonini, current member of the Muhlenberg Board of Directors, past Auxiliary President, and outstanding volunteer, was also presented with the William Augustus Muhlenberg Award. Mari has truly lived the life of a steward in every sense of the word, giving freely and selflessly of her time, talent and treasure for the benefit of the hospital and its patients. A Plainfield resident for more that fifty-five years, Mari said that her fondness for the Medical Center has deepened over time. “Muhlenberg is a marvelous institution. The nursing care is superior, the facility is spotless and everything is done right….I believe it is one of the best hospitals in New Jersey and I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” she said. After more than two decades in the healthcare industry, Mari got her GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) and retired as a Sales Associate for Burgdorff Realtors. Her professional experience in both the business and healthcare arenas has been a valuable asset to the hospital’s governing board. “Mari has been a tremendous advocate for Muhlenberg, leading campaigns and other endeavors that promote the Medical Center,” asserted John Nolan.
Another shining star in the Muhlenberg galaxy is Beverly Howard, RN, RVS, Director of Cardiovascular Services, who was presented with the Edward J. Dailey, Jr. Leadership Award. This award is presented annually to an employee who demonstrates the fine stewardship, integrity and intellect embodied by its namesake, the late Edward J. Dailey, Jr., who served as Director and President of the Medical Center. Nancy Fiamingo, Sr. Vice President and COO for Muhlenberg, presented the award and commented on Beverly’s thirty year history with the hospital. “Bev is a hands-on, working manager who rolls up her sleeves and gets the job done. This trait has earned her the respect and support of both peers and staff. I can’t think of a more deserving employee.” Beverly co-chairs Muhlenberg’s Partners in Healthcare Committee – an employee initiative for patient satisfaction – as well as the 2007 Magic of Muhlenberg Gala Committee and the Solaris Annual Nurses’ Day Celebration.
Congratulations to these outstanding honorees and to all of our donors – whose contributions allow us to provide the very best healthcare to the communities we serve.
