PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT:
Sami Scheffler │Providence Medical Center
402-375-7922 │ sscheffler@providencemedical.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Providence Medical Center Foundation Hosts 4th Annual Jewel Gala
Wayne, NE—On December 7, Providence Medical Center (PMC) hosted its 4th Annual Jewel Gala, a glittering evening dedicated to celebrating generosity and community spirit and raising funds for vital medical services. The festivities began Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the 10-year completion of construction and renovations. Interim CEO Nicole Haglund highlighted the hospital’s growth and progress, followed by a heartfelt naming dedication honoring long-time PMC supporter Randy Pedersen. Pedersen, owner of Diamond King Jewelry and The Diamond Center, was recognized for his unwavering contributions to the Jewel Gala over the past four years. In honor of his dedication to PMC and the community, the Rock Steady Boxing Room, a program championed by Pedersen to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease, was officially renamed the “Randy Pedersen Rock Steady Boxing Gym: Dedication to the King of the Ring.” The dedication was presented by Foundation Director Sami Scheffler, commemorating Pedersen’s impact on health and wellness, along with his outstanding contributions and support for PMC and the Foundation. Foundation Director Sami Scheffler shared, “It was easy for the committee to come together and want to recognize Randy Pedersen for his years of dedication and support for PMC. The trick was how we would do it. The connection to Rock Steady Boxing was perfect.” Pedersen’s recognition carried into Saturday’s Gala, where Dr. McCorkindale highlighted his generosity during the evening’s auction. The final “jewel” in Pedersen’s legacy—a dazzling diamond—was sold to the highest bidder, adding extra brilliance to the night. The evening also honored Dr. Martin for his years of dedicated service as he transitions into retirement. These moments of gratitude underscored the community’s enduring support of PMC’s mission. Gala Attendees were reminded of the Gala’s core purpose as a brand-new medical ambulance parked outside the venue and taking center stage. The ambulance is partially funded by a Nebraska State Grant and the generous Gardner Foundation—whose name is proudly displayed on the vehicle—and the ambulance significantly enhances the hospital’s emergency services. Foundation Director Sami Scheffler reflected on the event, sharing, “The Jewel Gala’s success would not have been possible without the extraordinary support of numerous donors, community members, and hospital employees who contributed their time and talents to ensure a memorable evening.” Sami added that she and the committee are already back at the drawing board, brainstorming the hospital’s next big fundraiser.
To learn more about supporting Providence Medical Center Foundation’s efforts, please contact Foundation Director Sami Scheffler at 402-375-7922.
