News Summary
The AdventHealth Foundation West Florida has set a new record by raising $2.4 million at its annual Starlight Gala. Held at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, the funds will enhance women’s and children’s services in their hospitals. With the theme ‘Once Upon a Miracle,’ the event celebrated community dedication and highlighted the need for patient-centered initiatives, including labor and delivery simulation centers and NICU camera systems for families of newborns. The foundation is committed to using the raised funds to improve healthcare for women and children in the West Florida region.
Tampa, Florida – The AdventHealth Foundation West Florida celebrated a monumental achievement at its annual Starlight Gala in 2025, raising a record-breaking $2.4 million to enhance women’s and children’s services across its network of hospitals.
Themed “Once Upon a Miracle,” the gala took place on April 14, 2025, at the luxurious JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. It was chaired by Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, co-owner and co-chairman of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Under her leadership, the event became a shining example of community dedication to health services.
Kristen McCall, president of AdventHealth Foundation West Florida, highlighted that these fundraising efforts are crucial for implementing patient-centered initiatives within their facilities. Particularly, the funds raised during the gala will be directed towards enhancing services such as labor and delivery simulation centers and NICU camera systems that will greatly benefit parents of newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
The gala success is exemplified through heartwarming stories, including that of a patient named Chloe, who spent a significant 104 days in the NICU. Such accounts emphasize the importance of the services funded by the gala, reflecting the tangible impact on families in the community.
In light of this achievement, the AdventHealth Foundation is committed to utilizing the funds for several patient-centered initiatives throughout its West Florida facilities. This includes ongoing improvements to healthcare infrastructure and resources that directly affect women and children in need of specialized care.
Looking Ahead
Planning is already underway for the next Starlight Gala, which is set to occur on August 27, 2026. The event will be chaired by Tom Johnston, co-founder and president of Stability Biologics, who has been a staunch supporter of AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, ensuring that the momentum from the current year continues into the future.
Supporting the Community
In addition to the Starlight Gala, other community-focused initiatives have been gaining traction in the Tampa area. Shumaker Advisors has made significant strides in securing $3.5 million in state funding for the Blue Angels Foundation, aiding wounded veterans. Furthermore, retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General James “Hammer” Hartsell has assumed a position on the Saint Leo University Board of Trustees, bringing a wealth of military and public service expertise to the table.
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa was recognized with a Cultural Impact Award from Casinos.com, acknowledging its charitable endeavors and unwavering support for the community. Meanwhile, the University of South Florida has achieved a remarkable milestone, raising $184.2 million in philanthropic support for the 2024–25 fiscal year, attracting contributions from over 59,700 donors.
Local Developments
In local leadership news, the CEO of Serenity Village Insurance & Consulting is contemplating a run for the Tampa mayoral seat in 2027. Simultaneously, Truist Financial Corp. appointed Ryan Booher as the new Tampa Bay market president, promoting Steve Fisher to a wider commercial sales role.
Further reflecting community engagement, Chris Chatterton has stepped into the role of president at the Jesuit High School Foundation, an organization established in 1960. Community favorite The Melting Pot Restaurant is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a venue for special occasions.
Through events like the Starlight Gala and numerous other community initiatives, the Tampa Bay area continues to prioritize health, well-being, and comprehensive support for its residents. The collective efforts reflect a robust commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all community members.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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AdventHealth’s Starlight Gala to Boost Pediatric Care Funding
Tampa Bay Shines with Charity Events for Local Causes
Tampa Bay Celebrates Community Achievements with Holiday Cheer
Tampa Bay Celebrates Extraordinary Women at Community Events
Additional Resources
- TBBW Magazine: AdventHealth Starlight Gala Raises Two Million
- Broadway World: Cape Rep Theatre To Host 2025 Summer Starlight Gala
- TBBW Magazine: AdventHealth Starlight Gala 2024
- Google Search: 2025 AdventHealth Starlight Gala
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charity Galas
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
