January 26, 2026 UPDATED

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation hosted its 9^th annual Hospital Gala at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota on January 10, 2026, with over 650 guests in attendance. Breaking the previous Gala record, the event raised net proceeds of $2 million, supporting world-class healthcare at SMH. The event featured SMH’s innovation, research and technology, and was hosted by the Healthcare Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

“Every year, the Hospital Gala brings together people who believe deeply in the future of healthcare in our region,” said Healthcare Foundation president Stacey Corley. “The generosity shown this evening helps ensure Sarasota Memorial can continue advancing innovation, research and patient care.”

The evening’s mission moment included a special video featuring some of the health system’s latest innovations, advanced technology, clinical research and the people who help SMH stay at the forefront of medical care. Concluding the event was a live performance by The Royals and dancing.

“This remarkable outpouring of support reflects the trust our community places in Sarasota Memorial,” said Sarasota Memorial Health Care System President and CEO David Verinder. “They are visionaries who believe in the power of new ideas and the impact we can have on the future of medicine here and throughout the world. We are deeply grateful.”

2026 Hospital Gala Lead Sponsors

Premier Sponsor: Jonathan and Michelle Mitchell/Joel and Gail Morganroth/Glenn and Jackie Tilton;
Helicopter Sponsors: Brian and Sheila Jellison Family Foundation, Terry and Tina Lundgren and Sunset Automotive Group;
Ambulance Sponsors: Ginny and Ravi Akhoury, Ambitrans Ambulance, Anonymous, Cathy and Frank Burzik, Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, Deb Kabinoff Fund/Jon and Libby Soderberg Family Fund, Doug Holder Family Fund, Robert and Anne Essner, Flad Architects, Josephine Kixmiller Charitable Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, MITER Foundation, Barbara and Gary Rodkin, Dona and Sam Scott, and Bob and Angelia Wood.