Contact: Ellen Bank
843.792.2626
Sept. 16, 2004
Charleston The HCA (Hospital Corporation of America) Foundation today announced a $100,000 philanthropic gift that will enable the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Health Professions to establish an endowed scholarship in memory of a former faculty member who died of cancer last January.
The HCA-DeMarco Endowed Scholarship will be awarded to students enrolled in the college’s residential masters in health administration (MHA) program, which trains administrators in the planning, organization and direction of hospitals, public health agencies, physician-based practices and other health care organizations.
DeMarco worked with the MHA program during the final three years of his life. His overall career in health administration spanned more than 30 years, including 15 years as CEO of Charleston’s Trident Health System and five years as president of HCA’s Southeast Division. It was his service to HCA that motivated the HCA Foundation to honor DeMarco’s memory with an endowed scholarship.
“Frank had a passion for developing talent, and he personally mentored many young health care executives throughout his career,” said Michael P. Joyce, president of HCA's Southeast Division. “We are proud to help ensure that Frank's legacy continues through this wonderful scholarship at Medical University of South Carolina.”
As the first endowed scholarship in the College of Health Professions’ MHA program, the HCA-DeMarco Endowed Scholarship will provide students with much needed financial support, said Dean Danielle Ripich.
“The HCA-DeMarco Endowed Scholarship is an investment in all of our futures,” said Ripich. “We are in the business of educating future health care leaders that will serve the needs of this community, the citizens of South Carolina, the region, and yes, the nation. This was the passion of Frank DeMarco.”
Moreover, she said, the scholarship would serve as an enduring tribute to a talented hospital administrator and dedicated educator who had a major influence on public health policy in South Carolina.
Nashville-based Hospital Corporation of America is one of the world’s leading health care providers, with 190 hospitals and other health facilities in the 23 states, England and Switzerland.
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