Over 700 supporters gathered for the AtlantiCare Foundation’s 65th Annual Century Club Gala, held May 16 at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City. Themed The Celestial Soiree, the event raised $700,000 for AtlantiCare YOUniversity, supporting AtlantiCare’s continued investment in the team members who care for the region.
This year’s Edward R. Knight Award recognized Karen Elizabeth Alton and Larry J. Kaufman, MD. Alton was honored for a legacy of generosity rooted in service to others and a deep commitment to the mental health and stability of students across South Jersey. Dr. Kaufman was recognized for his decades of service as a highly respected OB/GYN, his leadership across AtlantiCare’s medical staff and his lasting impact on women and families across the region.
This award, established in 1998, honors those who make lasting contributions to building a healthier community. It is named for the late Edward R. Knight, Ph.D., chair emeritus of AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s (ARMC’s) Board of Trustees, who devoted more than 50 years of service to improving healthcare for those who live and work in southeastern New Jersey.
“The Edward R. Knight Award is one of AtlantiCare’s most meaningful honors because it recognizes people whose service and generosity have strengthened the health of this region,” said David Goddard, chair of the AtlantiCare Board of Trustees. “Karen Alton and Dr. Kaufman reflect that legacy in different but equally important ways. Their commitment to AtlantiCare and to South Jersey continues to make a lasting impact on patients, families and the communities we serve.”
Funds raised at this year’s gala will advance workforce excellence, one of AtlantiCare’s four key pillars of Vision 2030, the organization’s six-year strategy to change how healthcare is defined, measured and delivered. Through AtlantiCare YOUniversity, team members can access education reimbursement, professional certifications, skill-building programs and hands-on learning opportunities that support career growth and help build a sustainable healthcare workforce for the region.
“This is an important time for AtlantiCare and for South Jersey,” said Michael Charlton, president and CEO, AtlantiCare. “Our recent announcements with Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine and Stockton University are part of a larger effort to build stronger pathways into healthcare at every level, from future physicians and health professionals to the team members already caring for our communities. The funds raised through this year’s gala will help advance that same commitment through AtlantiCare YOUniversity, giving our people more opportunities to learn, grow and lead. That is how we strengthen care today while building the workforce our region will need for the future.”
Last year’s gala proceeds were also directed to YOUniversity, supporting future-focused learning initiatives designed to develop team members, strengthen patient care and prepare the organization for the future. Those investments included immersive virtual reality, augmented reality and high-fidelity simulation training; tuition-free degree and talent pipeline programs; global learning exchange opportunities; a pilot Administrative Fellow Program; and resources for EMT Academy learners.
