I Am Summa:

Shining a light on employee philanthropy

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2024 edition of Promise magazine.

The commitment and generosity of Summa Health employees and physicians radiates through every aspect of the health system’s mission, touching the lives of countless patients and families. This philanthropic spirit has been a cornerstone of Summa Health since its inception in 1892 and remains a driving force today through the I Am Summa giving program.

Working hard behind the scenes, members of the I Am Summa Employee Champion Committee advocate, educate and rally support for Summa Health by raising awareness around the importance of philanthropy.

Employee Champion co-chair Tina Holmes said she gives back because Summa Health is like her second home and her family.

“I want Summa Health to thrive, patients to heal and to fill the system with hope with my philanthropic support. I love that I can designate where I want my donation to make an impact,” she said. “Every year I give to a different area within the system such as to hospice in memory of my grandparents, the Williams Center for Breast Health to honor special friends and loved ones, and WAGtime. Who doesn’t love to cuddle with a dog when you are sick?”

Promise asked these I Am Summa supporters why they give back to Summa Health:

Shannon Blower
Director, Pastoral Care Services and Education

“I remember seeing a poster when I began my Chaplain Residency in 2012. The title was simply, ‘You are Summa.’ My sense of belonging and responsibility was immediate. I am glad to give annually to behavioral sciences research and education to further the sacred work of restoring the sense of belonging to a fragmented community.”

Renee Brinker
System Director, Complex Care Institute

“As a leader, I experience firsthand how philanthropy can make a difference in the care we provide to our patients and community, and in the education and training we can provide our employees. I give to enhance the funding for the incredibly impactful programs that I see at work every day.”

Tiffany Dillon
Director, Nursing Operations, Hospitals

“I give because I believe in the culture at Summa Health. I designate my contributions to promote higher education, nursing professional practice, and to expand the knowledge and implementation of evidencebased practice. The nurses I work with throughout the organization are amazing and care for the health of our community.”

For more information, contact Summa Foundation at 330.375.3159 or foundation@summahealth.org.