Dinner Celebrates The Miriam’s Rich Tradition of Philanthropy

In celebration of the generous philanthropy that has been pivotal in defining the rich tradition of The Miriam Hospital, hospital President Arthur Sampson and Foundation Chair, Marie J. Langlois, welcomed 135 members of The Miriam People Society and their guests for this year’s Miriam People Dinner.

Held on September 14 at the Providence Marriott, the event was co-chaired by longtime hospital friends and dedicated supporters, Susan and David Bazar. Following Foundation Chair Marie J. Langlois thanking the generous donor community that makes much of the hospital’s work possible, hospital President Arthur Sampson reflected on The Miriam’s accomplishments of the past year. Among the successes shared was Dr. Howard Safran’s appointment to Chief of Hematology and Oncology for the Lifespan Cancer Institute, the Joint Commission awarding the Total Joint Center its second Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Certification for Total Hip and Total Knee Replacement, and The Miriam’s ranking by U.S. News & World Report as the top hospital in Rhode Island for 2017—its fifth time receiving the prestigious distinction.

The event also featured keynote speaker Dr. James McDonald, Chief Administrative Officer of the Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline for the State of Rhode Island. His presentation, “The Changing Face of the Opioid Crisis in Rhode Island—the Finality of Fentanyl,” provided an overview of the changes the medical community has seen in the potency of prescriptions and its relevancy to the opioid epidemic that has reached crisis proportions in our state and in our country. At the conclusion of the night’s formal program, guests enjoyed a special dinner reception in the Marriott’s Grand Ballroom.

“Our People Dinner is one of my favorite events of the year because it provides an incredible opportunity to celebrate the unwavering support of our donors while thanking them for all they have helped to make possible,” said Arthur Sampson. “There is no question that The Miriam would not be the hospital it is today without the power of philanthropy—and that’s something we will never lose sight of.”