Pictured left: Mae Payne, sister of the late James E. Payne, and Margaret Ralston Payne, his wife, stand near the plaque that honors his memory.

Margaret Ralston Payne: 

Supporting hope and healing for the community 

This story originally appeared in the Fall 2023 edition of Promise magazine.

When Margaret Ralston Payne witnessed the devastation of the COVID pandemic on the mental health of so many in the community, she was moved to act. In late 2021, Payne generously gave in memory of her late husband, James, to support behavioral health services at Summa Health. Her generosity is recognized with a plaque in the Juve Family Behavioral Health Pavilion on the Akron Campus.

“With the COVID pandemic and other trauma in our community,” said Payne, “I realized that the need for these critical services is greater than ever. As an African American trained in psychology, I am aware of the reluctance of many in our community to seek out mental health services.” 

Payne said she was compelled to support Summa Health’s investment in behavioral health because the new pavilion reflects and advances the excellent quality of psychology and psychiatric care the health system provides.

As an emeritus member of the Summa Foundation Board of Directors, she understands Summa Health’s commitment to providing the highest quality care to the Akron community. “Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is lived out daily,” she noted. “I encourage giving to Summa Health because every gift, no matter the size, will reap benefits for the health of all.”

For more information on supporting Summa Health, please contact Summa Foundation, at foundation@summahealth.org or 330.375.3159.