Sapphire Ball Venetian Masquerade raises more than $1 million
The Summa Health Sapphire Ball filled the John S. Knight Center with mystery and grandeur on September 22, 2018.
The 17th annual edition of Akron's premier philanthropic gala was a Venetian masquerade ball that raised more than $1 million. Net proceeds benefit Summa Health Cardiovascular Services and other key clinical areas of the health system.
More than 800 guests were treated to stilt walkers, jugglers, minstrels and other entertainment reminiscent of Venice nearly 1,000 years ago. Musical performers included acclaimed violin soloist Jersey Gina, world-renowned baroque orchestra Apollo's Fire, and the longtime Northeast Ohio band favorite Shout! See a gallery of photos from the event below.
Cliff Deveny, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Summa Health, spoke about Summa Health Cardiovascular Services and its commitment to high-quality, compassionate care. Summa Health cardiovascular patients Jim Riter and Darrel Seibert shared their stories in a video.
Tom and Ginny Knoll served as the honorary chairs, and Barbara and Gino Faciana led a group of 20 volunteers and community leaders focused on fundraising efforts as corporate committee chairs. Roger Chaffee, M.D., and Michael Hughes, M.D. — longtime leaders of Summa Health's heart specialists — served as the physician chairs.
Huntington Bank and Tom and Ginny Knoll were Diamond Sponsors of the 2018 Sapphire Ball. Ruby Sponsors were Barbara and Gino Faciana of Pleasant Valley Corporation, Steve Comunale of S.A. Communale, Sandy and Tony Solaro, and Sandy and Cliff Deveny. Click here to see a full list of 2018 sponsors.
Akron native Sara Shookman, news anchor for WKYC Channel 3 in Cleveland, served as mistress of ceremonies.
Summa Health’s signature gala has raised more than $11 million since its inception.
