University of Kansas Hospital names Hall of Fame class

News Release:

For only the second time in its history, The University of Kansas Hospital has inducted key people and companies into its Hall of Fame as a tribute to those who have been instrumental in the hospital’s historic turnaround.  In 1998, the hospital was projected to soon lose millions of dollars and was losing patients.

But, in 1998, the Kansas Legislature removed the hospital from the University of Kansas system and placed it in an independently governed public authority.  Since then, The University of Kansas Hospital has been repeatedly honored as one of the nation’s leading hospitals.

Two individuals and two companies are being honored at a celebration dinner at the Westin Crown Center Hotel, 1 East Pershing Road, Tuesday, June 5, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.

Legacy Award for service above and beyond over many years.

Irene (Cumming) Thompson, hospital president and CEO from 1996-2007
Her visionary leadership, energy, passion and determination were instrumental in launching the hospital's historic turnaround when it became an independent public authority in 1998. The team she assembled engineered a dramatic shift in quality of care, patient and staff satisfaction and revenue, and led the hospital to become one of the nation's top academic medical centers.
Catalyst Award for individuals who have helped transform the hospital through support, innovative thinking and advocacy.

Joe and Jeanne Brandmeyer, philanthropists and advocates
The name Brandmeyer is forged to cancer care. A $10 million gift established a Radiation Oncology chair and professorship in the quest for National Cancer Institute designation and will support key clinical cancer priorities. The Brandmeyer Patient Resource Center at the Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Care Pavilion benefits countless cancer patients and families, and the Brandmeyers have been major sponsors of the Treads & Threads gala for cancer care since it debuted.

Partner in Excellence Award for companies or organizations that have invested in the hospital's growth and success through philanthropy, volunteerism and/or business partnership.

Pulse Design Group, healthcare architectural design
This firm has helped shape the look and function of the hospital. Projects include the Central Utility Plant, GI Endoscopy Center, hybrid cardiovascular suite, bridge corridor link from the Medical Office Building, and major renovations of the Burnett Burn Center, Labor and Delivery suites, inpatient cancer care area for apheresis treatments and others.

Schultz Brothers Electric Company, electrical construction contractor
For more than 20 years, SBEC has been the hospital's contractor for electrical power projects. Whether it's designing the new energy plant, providing emergency power generation at the main hospital or installing specialized electric systems for the heart catheterization labs, the company has supplied our institution's lifeline for seamless operation and quality patient care.
Both companies also have sponsored the Treads & Threads gala annually since the beginning.