1415 East State Street, Suite 100
Rockford, IL 61104
NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Rockford, IL
Permit No. 3155
NEWSLETTER OF THE SWEDISHAMERICAN FOUNDATION
SPRING 2016
Save The Dates!
SAM’S SAFETY FAIR ~ SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2016 ~ 10 am-3 pm
This free event is open to the public. There will be lots of fun things for children 14 and under to see and
do: a bicycle safety rodeo, Sparky the interactive firetruck, Andy the ambulance, a chance to meet
officers from the Rockford Police Department and area fire departments, giveaways, refreshments and
much more! For information call Jeanna Babcock, trauma coordinator, at (779) 696-6150.
FOUNDERS’ DAY ~ MONDAY, JUNE 6, 2016
Celebrate the 105th Birthday of SwedishAmerican
ATTENTION SWEDISHAMERICAN EMPLOYEES: During Founders’ Week the SwedishAmerican Foundation
will continue its tradition of providing lunch for all employees at all locations. It’s our way of saying
“thank you” for the care you give to our community every day. The Foundation also is the sole sponsor
of the annual SwedishAmerican Employee Picnic, which will be held this year on Friday, June 10, under
the tent on the main campus. Keep your eye on The Hub for announcements about all Founders’
Week activities.
THE RYAN JURY MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING ~ WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016
The 31st annual Ryan Jury Memorial Golf Outing will be held on Wednesday, June 15. There will be
morning and afternoon shotgun starts and a scramble format. Breakfast and lunch are provided with
a dinner to follow at Giovanni’s. Proceeds benefit SwedishAmerican Foundation for the Ryan Jury Child
Development Learning Center. Registration fills up quickly, so if you would like more information please
call (779) 696-2496.
SAMG
Community Benefit Fund
Physicians pooling resources to care for our community.
In this issue
Welcome..........................................................................................................2
SAMG and the Community Benefit Fund.....................................................3
The Evolution of Process Improvement........................................................4
OUR NEW LEADERSHIP
Update on Cruise 2016...................................................................................4
C. Steven Sjogren
Chairman
The Annual SwedishAmerican Nurse Alumnae Banquet...........................5
Gordon H. Geddes
Vice Chairman
David R. Rydell
Secretary/Treasurer
Ted F. Brolund
Meet Our New Committee Members...........................................................5
Include SwedishAmerican in Your Estate Plans...........................................6
The Neighborhood Is Coming Together.......................................................6
Donor Spotlight................................................................................................6
Janice Hagenlocher
Thank You, Donors!.........................................................................................7
Gregory R. Jury
Save the Dates................................................................................................8
Steven Schou
James S. Waddell
Richard P. Walsh
STAFF
Laura Wilkinson, MBA, CAE
Director
Michelle Adams
Development Specialist
Emily Anaya
Development and
Property Coordinator
Deborah Johnson
Executive Assistant
EDITORIAL TEAM
Deborah Johnson
Editor
Michelle Adams
Emily Anaya
Laura Wilkinson
Honor and
Memorial Donors
We would like to recognize all
who have made a gift to the
Foundation from December 2015
through February 2016 in honor of
someone special or in memory of
someone dearly missed.
IN MEMORY OF
Welcome
Winter has passed, and once again we welcome
spring. Like always, the earth refreshes and renews.
Birds return, crocuses and daffodils peek out, and
animal babies appear in nests, fields and barns.
During this time of year, the SwedishAmerican
Foundation takes its cue from nature and enters our
own cycle. We had a great Cruise 2016 and close
the books on the event with more attendees and
more money raised than ever before. Benefitting
from that event is our Holistic Health Services, which
offers comfort and healing to our patients.
We now look toward our spring and summer events, such as our banquet with
the SwedishAmerican School of Nursing Alumnae, a luncheon with our retired
colleagues from the health system, Founders’ Week and the annual Ryan Jury
Memorial Golf Outing.
Enjoy this edition of Together. Don’t miss our welcome to the new additions to
our Operating Committee—we are so glad to have you helping us, Jan, Greg,
Rich and Steve! And be sure to read our feature article on the great vision
and growing generosity of the SwedishAmerican Medical Group. With the
Foundation, they are accomplishing great acts of philanthropy in our region.
MELVIN FLEEGE
Marie Olszewski
LEEANN HURLEY
Verna Hurley
JOHNSON/WAXLER ENDOWMENT
Dean Hendrix
T. THOMAS LUKASIK
Anne Lukasik
WILLIAM C. SCHULZ, JR.
SwedishAmerican Professional Staff
SHAN-CHIN TSAI
Shu Yi Tsai
CINDY WELLS
SwedishAmerican
Environmental Service
JUNE WOLFE
Joanne R. Wolfe
IN HONOR OF:
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
Before we know it, the cycle will continue to summer and fall. During the
warmer weather, please enjoy with us the Healing Garden at the hospital and
the Meditation Garden at the Regional Cancer Center. My very best to you
and welcome, spring!
PATRICIA BRAKE
Kobra A. Hall
COVER DESIGN
Best,
EMILY O’BRIEN, RN
Skip Hall
Joan Johnson and Moe Simek
Penny Olson, Bluebird Creatives
2
Thank You Donors!
DWAINE A. DEHMLOW
Dwain Dehmlow, Jr.
Marco T. Lenis
John C. Myers, MD
\
RON HOEKSTRA
Sandra J. Wallace
We are honored to thank the
following donors for gifts made to
the Foundation from December
2015 through February 2016.
DONATIONS OF $5,000
OR GREATER:
Alpine Bank
Faulkner Gustafson LLC
Infinity Healthcare
Sheryl Johnson
Rockford Anesthesiologists
Assoc., LLC
Rockford Orthopedic
Associates LTD
The Morse Group, Inc.
DONATIONS FROM
$1,000 TO $4,999:
Affiliated Surgeons of
Rockford, LLC
ATS Medical Services, Inc.
Ballard Companies, Inc.
Dr. Michael Born
Clodius & Co.
Don F. Daniels
Dwain Dehmlow Jr.
Mark & Patti DeWane
Phil & Leslie Frankfort
HUB Printing, Inc.
Ida M. Brechtel Charitable Trust
Integrated HomeCare Services
Jack Wolf Chrysler Jeep Dodge
Johnson Controls Inc.
Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC
Maple Crest Care Centre
Northern Illinois Hospice
Northern Illinois Service Co.
Northwest Bank
Northwoods Care Centre
NW IL Bldg & Construction
Trades Council
PG Architecture
Rosecrance Health Network
Schmeling Construction
The Graham Group
Wilson Electric Company
Zimmerman & Walsh, LLC
DONATIONS FROM
$500 TO $999:
Dean A. Hendrix
Dr. Fauzia & Mr. Tahir Khattak
Dr. Nameer Mardini
Nancy A. Mitchell
Tom & Denise Myers
Dr. Kevin & Shelly Peifer
Janet Rizzo
Rock Valley College
Andrea Severson
DONATIONS FROM
$250 TO $499:
Dorothy Anderson
Dr. Marc & Kathy Bernstein
John Cashmore
Dr. Danny & Donna Copeland
Dr. Richard E. Deming
Steven & Audrey DeVita
First Rockford Group
Fridh Corporation
Mary Linn Green
Guyer & Enichen
Dr. Bruce & Karen Jasper
Dr. Howard & Patricia Kaufman
Dr. Kathleen Kelly
Dr. Andrew & Janice Kotis
Anne Lukasik
Dr. Donald & Virginia Lyddon, Jr.
Miller Eye Center
Dr. John & Pauline Myers
Dr. Daniel & Connie Retzer
Dr. Thomas & Karen Schiller
Dr. Thomas & Barbara Stieglitz
James & Shirley Waddell
DONATIONS FROM
$100 TO $249:
Kathy Almond
Dr. William & Leah Baskin
Edward & Merry Crowder
Helen Chung Hill
Dr. Steven & Anne Ikenberry
Dr. Billie Lin
Noel Nickel
Doug & Tammy Scott
Dr. Sudha Shah &
Mr. Pradyumna Shah
M. Earlene Stromquist
SwedishAmerican Hospital
Environmental Services
SwedishAmerican
Professional Staff
Willow Creek Presbyterian Church
Workplace Staffing
DONATIONS UP TO $99:
Ellen G. Farrell
Giovanni’s, Inc.
Skip Hall
Michael J. Houselog
Laura Padron
Dr. James & Kathy Stim
Dorothy Tomasini
Sister Patricia Woods
While every attempt has been made to
acknowledge donors who gave during
the specified time period, if you note a
discrepancy please call (779) 696-2496.
7
Include
SwedishAmerican
in Your
Estate Plans
3 REASONS WHY
1. It is easy to provide for
SwedishAmerican in your
estate plans. Through
a simple codicil to your
current documents, you
can make a specific
gift or a percentage
allocation.
2. SwedishAmerican is an
important organization
to you and to our
community. For 100
years our hospital has
taken care of our family
and neighbors. And
our Foundation ensures
we meet the mission of
caring for our community.
3. At SwedishAmerican,
we need your support.
Through the generosity
of our donors, we are
able to do more good for
more people. We hope
you will join us in ensuring
our success into the
future.
For more information
on how you can help,
please call Deborah at
the Foundation
(779) 696-2496.
The Neighborhood is Coming Together
For the past 11 months, SwedishAmerican Foundation and the Rockford
Police Department have worked together on the Strong Neighborhood House
located at 1233 Revell Ave. We have strengthened relationships with area
organizations to bring services to the house that custom fit the needs of the
neighborhood. Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association, Rock River Valley
YMCA, Literacy Council and United Way are just a few of the organizations
that are providing programs at the Strong Neighborhood House. Another
positive outcome to the neighborhood and other neighborhoods surrounding
SwedishAmerican is the decrease in crime. According to Officer Brandon
Dillard, “The three neighborhood associations surrounding SAH are doing great
combating violent crime.” While January was a challenging month with an
increased number of robbery offenses among other violent crimes, numbers
were still down. Jackson Oaks, South Highland and Keith Creek all reported a
decrease in Crime from January 2015 to January 2016.
A partnership of programs and decreased crime lets us know that we have
taken steps to becoming the standout neighborhood in Rockford. We will
continue on this venture of building close, trusting relationships with our
neighbors and improving our neighborhoods.
Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association, Rock River Valley YMCA,
Literacy Council and United Way are just a few of the organizations
that are providing programs at the Strong Neighborhood House.
Donor Spotlight
DR. IDA M. BRECHTEL
There are currently 105 women physicians on staff at
SwedishAmerican. But back in 1949 when Dr. Ida M.
Brechtel joined the medical staff, it was uncommon
to have a woman physician. Nevertheless, Dr.
Brechtel was seen as a trailblazer and a pioneer,
and she was greatly respected by all of her
colleagues.
Dr. Brechtel began her career as a student nurse
at the SwedishAmerican Hospital School of Nursing.
After graduating she went on to study medicine at
the University of Illinois Medical School in Chicago.
She completed her residencies in obstetrics and gynecology and joined the
staff at SwedishAmerican. Her life was one of giving, and she was a role model
and mentor to many. She gave generously to SwedishAmerican Hospital
during her lifetime and continued to do so after her death through the Ida
Brechtel Charitable Trust.
While most of us may not have Dr. Brechtel’s resources, we are still able to
make a difference. We may not be able to match her giving dollar for dollar,
but we can certainly match her spirit of giving. As Aesop said, “No act of
kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
Have you ever considered making a planned or estate gift to the
SwedishAmerican Foundation? If you would like to discuss the possibilities,
please call Deborah at (779) 696-2496.
6
SAMG
Community Benefit Fund
Physicians pooling resources to care for our community.
The SwedishAmerican Medical Group (SAMG) is an
outstanding group of physicians, healthcare providers, nurses
and support staff. Comprising 10 primary care clinics, 14 specialty
care clinics and one administrative office, SAMG is self-governed
by physicians and providers who are active in medicine and have
the ability to provide input into decision making and strategic
planning—a model that is unique for this area.
But governance isn’t the only thing that
sets SAMG apart. Another unique aspect
is the SAMG Community Benefit Fund,
a provider supported fund that allows
pooled resources to be directed to
organizations in the community that have
a need. According to Dr. Thomas Schiller,
president of the SwedishAmerican Medical
Group, “Physicians give generously and
independently to organizations they feel
are important. But there are real needs
here in our own community that one might
not recognize. The Community Benefit
Fund is a way to channel resources to
local organizations—a way to pool our resources and live out our
mission to ‘care for our community.’”
Since 2010 the SwedishAmerican Medical Group, through
contributions to the Community Benefit Fund, has provided
more than $34,000 in support to our local community. It has:
• Helped with programs to feed the hungry
• Provided positive childhood memories to
underserved kids through Rock House Kids and
the Boys & Girls Club
• Helped the disabled through Special Olympics
and RAMP
• Enhanced educational opportunities for adults
through the Literacy Council and to children in
our local schools
For a full list of SAMG clinic locations and providers,
go to www.swedishamerican.org.
3
The Evolution of Process Improvement
Process improvement at SwedishAmerican Health
System is nothing new, but the way it is approached
and implemented has been revolutionized. As a
result, efficiency and effectiveness have skyrocketed,
and that directly correlates to improved patient
care.
It began in 2014 when the vice president of
operations, Jedediah Cantrell, researched and
then visited two progressive health systems that had
taken their process improvement efforts to a new
level. From that effort, SwedishAmerican’s Process
Improvement department was born. Director Paul
Hoffman, along with four process improvement
specialists, have for the past year and a half been
Update on Cruise
holding Rapid Improvement Events (RIEs) at the rate
of two to three per month. The results have been
phenomenal, and they’ve never looked back.
RIEs are based on the Toyota model known as
“Kaizen.” It is a concentrated, four-and-a-half-day
effort focused on making improvements in patient
care, employee empowerment and financial
management. Each RIE team consists of six to eight
frontline caregivers and a process improvement
specialist who guides them through the process
of uncovering a “better way” to serve our patient
population.
When asked why this program has been so
successful, Mr. Hoffman stated, “Ideas are brought
to us by individuals in the organization that want to
remove nonproductive activities from their workday.
This is not a ‘top-down’ directive but, rather, our
caregiver staff wanting to do more of what they
were hired for—providing exceptional care and
value for our patient population.”
This is why when you hear “Trust the Best” you
can know it isn’t just a slogan. When you give to
SwedishAmerican, you make a difference. We are
the best—for you and because of you.
2016
CRUISING THE MEDITERRANEAN, FOUNDATION STYLE
This year was our 22nd annual Cruise fundraiser, and we gave it
a Mediterranean flair. With tablecloths the colors of the sea and
candles mimicking sunlight dancing on the water, the sold-out
room dazzled! Guests feasted at the Mediterranean “ports” of
Italy, Greece and Spain, with side trips to the amazing Dessert
Island. Giovanni’s outdid themselves, and the food was exceptional!
Ryan Nelson, DJ from Sound Productions, set the pace for the evening and did his
usual great job keeping everyone entertained. We had a special treat mid-evening
when professional ballroom dancers wowed the crowd with their exhibition of the cha-cha, bolero and mambo.
There were some firsts this year as well. A complimentary photo booth allowed party goers to capture special
memories, two rounds of Heads or Tails left lucky winners with a fistful of gift cards, and we truly joined the
electronic age when our silent auction went online. Texts kept bidders up to date on the status of their bids,
and items could be paid for online. The end result? We surpassed all records for money raised through our
silent auction!
Last but never least, we’d like to shout out a very loud and heartfelt “thank you!” to our wonderful sponsors. A total
of 46 companies and individuals sponsored Cruise 2016, making it the most successful event ever. By the time the
doors closed on Cruise 2016, we had raised $181,431.50 for Holistic Health services at SwedishAmerican.
4
The Annual
SwedishAmerican
Nurse Alumnae Banquet
By guest contributors Joan Johnson and Moe Simek
SwedishAmerican School of Nursing Class of 1968
What does it feel like to
walk into the Forest Hills
Country Club dining
room when it is filled with
nurses?
Rejuvenating There is
a feeling of oneness.
No matter your journey
after graduating from
the SwedishAmerican
Hospital School of Nursing, we all are nurses first. We
learned to care for our patients physically, mentally and
spiritually. The annual Alumnae Banquet celebrates every
graduate and, in particular, honors the graduates who are
celebrating their 50th class reunion. The school had its last
graduating class in 1977, so this tradition will continue until
at least 2027!
What happens when you
sit at your table with your
former classmates?
Reminiscing –
Reconnecting –
Remembering Everyone
looks forward to this
reunion event. We
share our stories, both
happy and sad. Some
classes get together at other times of the year just to stay
connected. SwedishAmerican has grown. Dr. Gorski and
SwedishAmerican Foundation’s director, Laura Wilkinson,
inform us of the changes that have occurred and of any
future plans. WE are a part of SwedishAmerican’s history
and growth. WE are remembered. WE are celebrated as a
community of healthcare professionals and …
How do we feel when we
leave the banquet?
Reenergized! The annual
alumnae banquets are
made possible by the
generous sponsorship of
the SwedishAmerican
Foundation, and we are
very thankful for all they
do on our behalf. So
here’s to all the SwedishAmerican Nurses who will gather
at Forest Hills Country Club on April 30, 2016. Come and
celebrate the common bond we all share. Come join us for
the memories!
Welcome to the Foundation
The Foundation recently added four distinguished
and accomplished members to its Operating
Committee, and it is a privilege to introduce them
to you.
Janice A. (Jan) Hagenlocher
recently retired from
SwedishAmerican after 35 years
in Public Relations. She now
volunteers for several organizations,
including SwedishAmerican, the
United Way’s I-Read program, Senior Follies and
the Nicholas Conservatory, and she is on the
Hononegah High School Class of 1961 reunion
committee. Additionally, Jan has been a Rockford
Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for 16 years.
She is married to Erich and has a daughter, Kristin.
In her spare time she enjoys singing, traveling and
reading.
Gregory R. (Greg) Jury has
been employed by Rock River
Environmental Services for 16 years.
He is a Loves Park alderman and
serves on the Loves Park Lions
Club and the Parks Chamber of
Commerce. Greg is married to Kelly and has two
children and two grandchildren, with one on the
way. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with
family and his grandchildren, golfing, and cheering
on the Chicago Bears and Cubs. He and his family
also have hosted the Ryan Jury Memorial Golf
Outing for more than 30 years.
Steven L. (Steve) Schou, CFP, is
chairman and CEO of Klaas
Financial Asset Advisors, LLC,
specializing in retirement planning
for individuals, families and
businesses. Steve and his wife,
Kelly, stay very active with their three collegeage children. They love hiking in the mountains
and walking their dogs at Rock Cut State Park. In
addition, Steve enjoys golf, running and working
out.
Richard P. (Rich) Walsh retired from
SwedishAmerican Health System
in December 2013 after 20 years
serving as COO and executive
vice president. His accomplished
and successful career at
SwedishAmerican includes a number of major
projects, not the least of which was the Regional
Cancer Center. Rich received a BSC in accounting
from DePaul University in 1974, a CPA Certificate
from The University of Illinois in 1977 and a JD from
DePaul University in 1984. He was admitted to the
Illinois bar in 1984. Now semi-retired, Rich practices
law part-time with his daughter Erin as a partner in
the Zimmerman & Walsh, LLC, law firm. Rich has four
daughters and nine grandchildren with another
due in June. When not working, his No. 1 pastime
is enjoying his family, especially his grandchildren,
followed by fishing and traveling.
5
The Evolution of Process Improvement
Process improvement at SwedishAmerican Health
System is nothing new, but the way it is approached
and implemented has been revolutionized. As a
result, efficiency and effectiveness have skyrocketed,
and that directly correlates to improved patient
care.
It began in 2014 when the vice president of
operations, Jedediah Cantrell, researched and
then visited two progressive health systems that had
taken their process improvement efforts to a new
level. From that effort, SwedishAmerican’s Process
Improvement department was born. Director Paul
Hoffman, along with four process improvement
specialists, have for the past year and a half been
Update on Cruise
holding Rapid Improvement Events (RIEs) at the rate
of two to three per month. The results have been
phenomenal, and they’ve never looked back.
RIEs are based on the Toyota model known as
“Kaizen.” It is a concentrated, four-and-a-half-day
effort focused on making improvements in patient
care, employee empowerment and financial
management. Each RIE team consists of six to eight
frontline caregivers and a process improvement
specialist who guides them through the process
of uncovering a “better way” to serve our patient
population.
When asked why this program has been so
successful, Mr. Hoffman stated, “Ideas are brought
to us by individuals in the organization that want to
remove nonproductive activities from their workday.
This is not a ‘top-down’ directive but, rather, our
caregiver staff wanting to do more of what they
were hired for—providing exceptional care and
value for our patient population.”
This is why when you hear “Trust the Best” you
can know it isn’t just a slogan. When you give to
SwedishAmerican, you make a difference. We are
the best—for you and because of you.
2016
CRUISING THE MEDITERRANEAN, FOUNDATION STYLE
This year was our 22nd annual Cruise fundraiser, and we gave it
a Mediterranean flair. With tablecloths the colors of the sea and
candles mimicking sunlight dancing on the water, the sold-out
room dazzled! Guests feasted at the Mediterranean “ports” of
Italy, Greece and Spain, with side trips to the amazing Dessert
Island. Giovanni’s outdid themselves, and the food was exceptional!
Ryan Nelson, DJ from Sound Productions, set the pace for the evening and did his
usual great job keeping everyone entertained. We had a special treat mid-evening
when professional ballroom dancers wowed the crowd with their exhibition of the cha-cha, bolero and mambo.
There were some firsts this year as well. A complimentary photo booth allowed party goers to capture special
memories, two rounds of Heads or Tails left lucky winners with a fistful of gift cards, and we truly joined the
electronic age when our silent auction went online. Texts kept bidders up to date on the status of their bids,
and items could be paid for online. The end result? We surpassed all records for money raised through our
silent auction!
Last but never least, we’d like to shout out a very loud and heartfelt “thank you!” to our wonderful sponsors. A total
of 46 companies and individuals sponsored Cruise 2016, making it the most successful event ever. By the time the
doors closed on Cruise 2016, we had raised $181,431.50 for Holistic Health services at SwedishAmerican.
4
The Annual
SwedishAmerican
Nurse Alumnae Banquet
By guest contributors Joan Johnson and Moe Simek
SwedishAmerican School of Nursing Class of 1968
What does it feel like to
walk into the Forest Hills
Country Club dining
room when it is filled with
nurses?
Rejuvenating There is
a feeling of oneness.
No matter your journey
after graduating from
the SwedishAmerican
Hospital School of Nursing, we all are nurses first. We
learned to care for our patients physically, mentally and
spiritually. The annual Alumnae Banquet celebrates every
graduate and, in particular, honors the graduates who are
celebrating their 50th class reunion. The school had its last
graduating class in 1977, so this tradition will continue until
at least 2027!
What happens when you
sit at your table with your
former classmates?
Reminiscing –
Reconnecting –
Remembering Everyone
looks forward to this
reunion event. We
share our stories, both
happy and sad. Some
classes get together at other times of the year just to stay
connected. SwedishAmerican has grown. Dr. Gorski and
SwedishAmerican Foundation’s director, Laura Wilkinson,
inform us of the changes that have occurred and of any
future plans. WE are a part of SwedishAmerican’s history
and growth. WE are remembered. WE are celebrated as a
community of healthcare professionals and …
How do we feel when we
leave the banquet?
Reenergized! The annual
alumnae banquets are
made possible by the
generous sponsorship of
the SwedishAmerican
Foundation, and we are
very thankful for all they
do on our behalf. So
here’s to all the SwedishAmerican Nurses who will gather
at Forest Hills Country Club on April 30, 2016. Come and
celebrate the common bond we all share. Come join us for
the memories!
Welcome to the Foundation
The Foundation recently added four distinguished
and accomplished members to its Operating
Committee, and it is a privilege to introduce them
to you.
Janice A. (Jan) Hagenlocher
recently retired from
SwedishAmerican after 35 years
in Public Relations. She now
volunteers for several organizations,
including SwedishAmerican, the
United Way’s I-Read program, Senior Follies and
the Nicholas Conservatory, and she is on the
Hononegah High School Class of 1961 reunion
committee. Additionally, Jan has been a Rockford
Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for 16 years.
She is married to Erich and has a daughter, Kristin.
In her spare time she enjoys singing, traveling and
reading.
Gregory R. (Greg) Jury has
been employed by Rock River
Environmental Services for 16 years.
He is a Loves Park alderman and
serves on the Loves Park Lions
Club and the Parks Chamber of
Commerce. Greg is married to Kelly and has two
children and two grandchildren, with one on the
way. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with
family and his grandchildren, golfing, and cheering
on the Chicago Bears and Cubs. He and his family
also have hosted the Ryan Jury Memorial Golf
Outing for more than 30 years.
Steven L. (Steve) Schou, CFP, is
chairman and CEO of Klaas
Financial Asset Advisors, LLC,
specializing in retirement planning
for individuals, families and
businesses. Steve and his wife,
Kelly, stay very active with their three collegeage children. They love hiking in the mountains
and walking their dogs at Rock Cut State Park. In
addition, Steve enjoys golf, running and working
out.
Richard P. (Rich) Walsh retired from
SwedishAmerican Health System
in December 2013 after 20 years
serving as COO and executive
vice president. His accomplished
and successful career at
SwedishAmerican includes a number of major
projects, not the least of which was the Regional
Cancer Center. Rich received a BSC in accounting
from DePaul University in 1974, a CPA Certificate
from The University of Illinois in 1977 and a JD from
DePaul University in 1984. He was admitted to the
Illinois bar in 1984. Now semi-retired, Rich practices
law part-time with his daughter Erin as a partner in
the Zimmerman & Walsh, LLC, law firm. Rich has four
daughters and nine grandchildren with another
due in June. When not working, his No. 1 pastime
is enjoying his family, especially his grandchildren,
followed by fishing and traveling.
5
Include
SwedishAmerican
in Your
Estate Plans
3 REASONS WHY
1. It is easy to provide for
SwedishAmerican in your
estate plans. Through
a simple codicil to your
current documents, you
can make a specific
gift or a percentage
allocation.
2. SwedishAmerican is an
important organization
to you and to our
community. For 100
years our hospital has
taken care of our family
and neighbors. And
our Foundation ensures
we meet the mission of
caring for our community.
3. At SwedishAmerican,
we need your support.
Through the generosity
of our donors, we are
able to do more good for
more people. We hope
you will join us in ensuring
our success into the
future.
For more information
on how you can help,
please call Deborah at
the Foundation
(779) 696-2496.
The Neighborhood is Coming Together
For the past 11 months, SwedishAmerican Foundation and the Rockford
Police Department have worked together on the Strong Neighborhood House
located at 1233 Revell Ave. We have strengthened relationships with area
organizations to bring services to the house that custom fit the needs of the
neighborhood. Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association, Rock River Valley
YMCA, Literacy Council and United Way are just a few of the organizations
that are providing programs at the Strong Neighborhood House. Another
positive outcome to the neighborhood and other neighborhoods surrounding
SwedishAmerican is the decrease in crime. According to Officer Brandon
Dillard, “The three neighborhood associations surrounding SAH are doing great
combating violent crime.” While January was a challenging month with an
increased number of robbery offenses among other violent crimes, numbers
were still down. Jackson Oaks, South Highland and Keith Creek all reported a
decrease in Crime from January 2015 to January 2016.
A partnership of programs and decreased crime lets us know that we have
taken steps to becoming the standout neighborhood in Rockford. We will
continue on this venture of building close, trusting relationships with our
neighbors and improving our neighborhoods.
Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association, Rock River Valley YMCA,
Literacy Council and United Way are just a few of the organizations
that are providing programs at the Strong Neighborhood House.
Donor Spotlight
DR. IDA M. BRECHTEL
There are currently 105 women physicians on staff at
SwedishAmerican. But back in 1949 when Dr. Ida M.
Brechtel joined the medical staff, it was uncommon
to have a woman physician. Nevertheless, Dr.
Brechtel was seen as a trailblazer and a pioneer,
and she was greatly respected by all of her
colleagues.
Dr. Brechtel began her career as a student nurse
at the SwedishAmerican Hospital School of Nursing.
After graduating she went on to study medicine at
the University of Illinois Medical School in Chicago.
She completed her residencies in obstetrics and gynecology and joined the
staff at SwedishAmerican. Her life was one of giving, and she was a role model
and mentor to many. She gave generously to SwedishAmerican Hospital
during her lifetime and continued to do so after her death through the Ida
Brechtel Charitable Trust.
While most of us may not have Dr. Brechtel’s resources, we are still able to
make a difference. We may not be able to match her giving dollar for dollar,
but we can certainly match her spirit of giving. As Aesop said, “No act of
kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
Have you ever considered making a planned or estate gift to the
SwedishAmerican Foundation? If you would like to discuss the possibilities,
please call Deborah at (779) 696-2496.
6
SAMG
Community Benefit Fund
Physicians pooling resources to care for our community.
The SwedishAmerican Medical Group (SAMG) is an
outstanding group of physicians, healthcare providers, nurses
and support staff. Comprising 10 primary care clinics, 14 specialty
care clinics and one administrative office, SAMG is self-governed
by physicians and providers who are active in medicine and have
the ability to provide input into decision making and strategic
planning—a model that is unique for this area.
But governance isn’t the only thing that
sets SAMG apart. Another unique aspect
is the SAMG Community Benefit Fund,
a provider supported fund that allows
pooled resources to be directed to
organizations in the community that have
a need. According to Dr. Thomas Schiller,
president of the SwedishAmerican Medical
Group, “Physicians give generously and
independently to organizations they feel
are important. But there are real needs
here in our own community that one might
not recognize. The Community Benefit
Fund is a way to channel resources to
local organizations—a way to pool our resources and live out our
mission to ‘care for our community.’”
Since 2010 the SwedishAmerican Medical Group, through
contributions to the Community Benefit Fund, has provided
more than $34,000 in support to our local community. It has:
• Helped with programs to feed the hungry
• Provided positive childhood memories to
underserved kids through Rock House Kids and
the Boys & Girls Club
• Helped the disabled through Special Olympics
and RAMP
• Enhanced educational opportunities for adults
through the Literacy Council and to children in
our local schools
For a full list of SAMG clinic locations and providers,
go to www.swedishamerican.org.
3
In this issue
Welcome..........................................................................................................2
SAMG and the Community Benefit Fund.....................................................3
The Evolution of Process Improvement........................................................4
OUR NEW LEADERSHIP
Update on Cruise 2016...................................................................................4
C. Steven Sjogren
Chairman
The Annual SwedishAmerican Nurse Alumnae Banquet...........................5
Gordon H. Geddes
Vice Chairman
David R. Rydell
Secretary/Treasurer
Ted F. Brolund
Meet Our New Committee Members...........................................................5
Include SwedishAmerican in Your Estate Plans...........................................6
The Neighborhood Is Coming Together.......................................................6
Donor Spotlight................................................................................................6
Janice Hagenlocher
Thank You, Donors!.........................................................................................7
Gregory R. Jury
Save the Dates................................................................................................8
Steven Schou
James S. Waddell
Richard P. Walsh
STAFF
Laura Wilkinson, MBA, CAE
Director
Michelle Adams
Development Specialist
Emily Anaya
Development and
Property Coordinator
Deborah Johnson
Executive Assistant
EDITORIAL TEAM
Deborah Johnson
Editor
Michelle Adams
Emily Anaya
Laura Wilkinson
Honor and
Memorial Donors
We would like to recognize all
who have made a gift to the
Foundation from December 2015
through February 2016 in honor of
someone special or in memory of
someone dearly missed.
IN MEMORY OF
Welcome
Winter has passed, and once again we welcome
spring. Like always, the earth refreshes and renews.
Birds return, crocuses and daffodils peek out, and
animal babies appear in nests, fields and barns.
During this time of year, the SwedishAmerican
Foundation takes its cue from nature and enters our
own cycle. We had a great Cruise 2016 and close
the books on the event with more attendees and
more money raised than ever before. Benefitting
from that event is our Holistic Health Services, which
offers comfort and healing to our patients.
We now look toward our spring and summer events, such as our banquet with
the SwedishAmerican School of Nursing Alumnae, a luncheon with our retired
colleagues from the health system, Founders’ Week and the annual Ryan Jury
Memorial Golf Outing.
Enjoy this edition of Together. Don’t miss our welcome to the new additions to
our Operating Committee—we are so glad to have you helping us, Jan, Greg,
Rich and Steve! And be sure to read our feature article on the great vision
and growing generosity of the SwedishAmerican Medical Group. With the
Foundation, they are accomplishing great acts of philanthropy in our region.
MELVIN FLEEGE
Marie Olszewski
LEEANN HURLEY
Verna Hurley
JOHNSON/WAXLER ENDOWMENT
Dean Hendrix
T. THOMAS LUKASIK
Anne Lukasik
WILLIAM C. SCHULZ, JR.
SwedishAmerican Professional Staff
SHAN-CHIN TSAI
Shu Yi Tsai
CINDY WELLS
SwedishAmerican
Environmental Service
JUNE WOLFE
Joanne R. Wolfe
IN HONOR OF:
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
Before we know it, the cycle will continue to summer and fall. During the
warmer weather, please enjoy with us the Healing Garden at the hospital and
the Meditation Garden at the Regional Cancer Center. My very best to you
and welcome, spring!
PATRICIA BRAKE
Kobra A. Hall
COVER DESIGN
Best,
EMILY O’BRIEN, RN
Skip Hall
Joan Johnson and Moe Simek
Penny Olson, Bluebird Creatives
2
Thank You Donors!
DWAINE A. DEHMLOW
Dwain Dehmlow, Jr.
Marco T. Lenis
John C. Myers, MD
\
RON HOEKSTRA
Sandra J. Wallace
We are honored to thank the
following donors for gifts made to
the Foundation from December
2015 through February 2016.
DONATIONS OF $5,000
OR GREATER:
Alpine Bank
Faulkner Gustafson LLC
Infinity Healthcare
Sheryl Johnson
Rockford Anesthesiologists
Assoc., LLC
Rockford Orthopedic
Associates LTD
The Morse Group, Inc.
DONATIONS FROM
$1,000 TO $4,999:
Affiliated Surgeons of
Rockford, LLC
ATS Medical Services, Inc.
Ballard Companies, Inc.
Dr. Michael Born
Clodius & Co.
Don F. Daniels
Dwain Dehmlow Jr.
Mark & Patti DeWane
Phil & Leslie Frankfort
HUB Printing, Inc.
Ida M. Brechtel Charitable Trust
Integrated HomeCare Services
Jack Wolf Chrysler Jeep Dodge
Johnson Controls Inc.
Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC
Maple Crest Care Centre
Northern Illinois Hospice
Northern Illinois Service Co.
Northwest Bank
Northwoods Care Centre
NW IL Bldg & Construction
Trades Council
PG Architecture
Rosecrance Health Network
Schmeling Construction
The Graham Group
Wilson Electric Company
Zimmerman & Walsh, LLC
DONATIONS FROM
$500 TO $999:
Dean A. Hendrix
Dr. Fauzia & Mr. Tahir Khattak
Dr. Nameer Mardini
Nancy A. Mitchell
Tom & Denise Myers
Dr. Kevin & Shelly Peifer
Janet Rizzo
Rock Valley College
Andrea Severson
DONATIONS FROM
$250 TO $499:
Dorothy Anderson
Dr. Marc & Kathy Bernstein
John Cashmore
Dr. Danny & Donna Copeland
Dr. Richard E. Deming
Steven & Audrey DeVita
First Rockford Group
Fridh Corporation
Mary Linn Green
Guyer & Enichen
Dr. Bruce & Karen Jasper
Dr. Howard & Patricia Kaufman
Dr. Kathleen Kelly
Dr. Andrew & Janice Kotis
Anne Lukasik
Dr. Donald & Virginia Lyddon, Jr.
Miller Eye Center
Dr. John & Pauline Myers
Dr. Daniel & Connie Retzer
Dr. Thomas & Karen Schiller
Dr. Thomas & Barbara Stieglitz
James & Shirley Waddell
DONATIONS FROM
$100 TO $249:
Kathy Almond
Dr. William & Leah Baskin
Edward & Merry Crowder
Helen Chung Hill
Dr. Steven & Anne Ikenberry
Dr. Billie Lin
Noel Nickel
Doug & Tammy Scott
Dr. Sudha Shah &
Mr. Pradyumna Shah
M. Earlene Stromquist
SwedishAmerican Hospital
Environmental Services
SwedishAmerican
Professional Staff
Willow Creek Presbyterian Church
Workplace Staffing
DONATIONS UP TO $99:
Ellen G. Farrell
Giovanni’s, Inc.
Skip Hall
Michael J. Houselog
Laura Padron
Dr. James & Kathy Stim
Dorothy Tomasini
Sister Patricia Woods
While every attempt has been made to
acknowledge donors who gave during
the specified time period, if you note a
discrepancy please call (779) 696-2496.
7
1415 East State Street, Suite 100
Rockford, IL 61104
NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Rockford, IL
Permit No. 3155
NEWSLETTER OF THE SWEDISHAMERICAN FOUNDATION
SPRING 2016
Save The Dates!
SAM’S SAFETY FAIR ~ SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2016 ~ 10 am-3 pm
This free event is open to the public. There will be lots of fun things for children 14 and under to see and
do: a bicycle safety rodeo, Sparky the interactive firetruck, Andy the ambulance, a chance to meet
officers from the Rockford Police Department and area fire departments, giveaways, refreshments and
much more! For information call Jeanna Babcock, trauma coordinator, at (779) 696-6150.
FOUNDERS’ DAY ~ MONDAY, JUNE 6, 2016
Celebrate the 105th Birthday of SwedishAmerican
ATTENTION SWEDISHAMERICAN EMPLOYEES: During Founders’ Week the SwedishAmerican Foundation
will continue its tradition of providing lunch for all employees at all locations. It’s our way of saying
“thank you” for the care you give to our community every day. The Foundation also is the sole sponsor
of the annual SwedishAmerican Employee Picnic, which will be held this year on Friday, June 10, under
the tent on the main campus. Keep your eye on The Hub for announcements about all Founders’
Week activities.
THE RYAN JURY MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING ~ WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016
The 31st annual Ryan Jury Memorial Golf Outing will be held on Wednesday, June 15. There will be
morning and afternoon shotgun starts and a scramble format. Breakfast and lunch are provided with
a dinner to follow at Giovanni’s. Proceeds benefit SwedishAmerican Foundation for the Ryan Jury Child
Development Learning Center. Registration fills up quickly, so if you would like more information please
call (779) 696-2496.
SAMG
Community Benefit Fund
Physicians pooling resources to care for our community.