Photography: Michelle Watson and Memorial Hermann Foundation
Event: Live Virtual Gala
Event Date: August 29, 2020
Location: Virtual
Money Raised: $2,600,000+
Beneficiary: Memorial Hermann’s Adult and Pediatric Heart and Vascular Services
Chairpersons: Elizabeth and Gary Petersen
Honorees: Alice and Keith Mosing
Virtually, Guests got “Pumped” for Memorial Hermann’s Circle of Life Gala
Producing a gala virtually is equally, if not more difficult, than having an actual live event. You have to create ambience where there isn’t any plus you have to make the event fun to watch from the confines of your guests’ homes. Memorial Hermann Foundation made it look easy and the dollars raised showcased that effort. Memorial Hermann’s Adult and Pediatric Heart and Vascular Services was recognized late last month by attendees of the annual Circle of Life “PUMPED” gala. Chaired by Elizabeth and Gary Petersen and honoring Alice and Keith Mosing for their continued support of the health system, the virtual gala garnered more than $2.6 million.
A 30-minute, pre-taped program featured remarks by Memorial Hermann Health System President and CEO Dr. David Callender, Memorial Hermann Foundation Executive Vice President and CEO Anne Neeson and event co-chair Gary Petersen, who provided a moment of comedic relief when he shared his take on virtual gala formal wear by revealing a colorful pair of banana-print shorts.
Dr. Tom Nguyen, a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, reminded attendees that even in the midst of a pandemic, Memorial Hermann is still caring for patients no matter what their health needs are, and reminded those at home to maintain routine checkups. An inspiring video presentation followed that highlighting the work of Memorial Hermann’s Adult and Pediatric Heart and Vascular Services told through the stories of five former patients and the affiliated physicians from the McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston who treated them.
Virtual guests were uplifted through musical entertainment from Veritas, a five-man vocal group (one is from Houston) who performed “You Raise Me Up” for the invocation and Ernest Walker Community Singers, who closed the program.
Sponsor couples received a custom cooler bag with assorted treats from Central Market.
Congratulations to all involved on a spectacular event!
Socially and virtually present: Gary & Elizabeth Petersen, Alice & Keith Mosing, Susan & Fayez Sarofim, Dr. Yvonne and Rufus Cormier and many more.
