Golf Tournament Raises Funds for Nursing Education at Saratoga Hospital
The 22nd annual Saratoga Hospital Golf Invitational, presented by AOW Construction Inc., raised more than $191,000 in support of nursing education and professional development at Saratoga Hospital.
Held Sept. 11 at Saratoga National Golf Club, the event received strong support from community members and staff volunteers, with many of the nurses who had previously received scholarships from the hospital volunteering to ensure participants enjoyed their experience. Co-chairs of the event were Jeremy Annese and Jon Leonard, who worked along with a dedicated committee of community leaders. Major sponsorships came from AOW Construction, Pepsi Beverages Company, Saratoga National Golf Club, and North Country Janitorial.
“We are thrilled and immensely grateful to all our sponsors for their enduring commitment to nursing education and professional development at Saratoga Hospital,” said Toni Bishop-McWain, DNP, RN, vice president of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “These funds play a crucial role in helping us attract and retain highly skilled nurses.”
Bishop-McWain added, “Through this event, we aim to cultivate valuable relationships and provide lifelong professional development opportunities for our nurses. Investment in education directly enhances the quality of patient care and ensures a brighter future for the Saratoga region. Nursing education is key to maintaining high-quality patient care and supporting our Magnet recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center—the highest honor for professional nursing practice.”
Saratoga Hospital was the first in the Capital Region to receive Magnet designation, maintaining since 2004. The hospital is among 128 Magnet-designated hospitals to achieve a fourth designation, representing just 21 percent of eligible institutions—a testament to its unwavering commitment to nursing excellence.
“I am filled with gratitude for this generous community. Co-chairing the Golf Invitational was a great honor, and the tournament exceeded 2023’s fundraising thanks to our dedicated volunteers and supporters,” said Jeremy Annese, Golf Invitational co-chair. “The inspiring dedication of Saratoga Hospital’s nursing scholarship recipients motivates us to highlight their work and meet their growing needs.”
Jon Leonard, co-chair of the Golf Invitational, added, “I am deeply grateful to our generous donors and the community for their unwavering support. The day showcased Saratoga’s incredible generosity and the dedication of our committee. Access to excellent health care is the foundation of any strong community, and it was an honor to co-chair this event in support of Saratoga Hospital nurses as they pursue higher education and professional development.”
The funds raised will directly support Saratoga Hospital nurses seeking to further their education and advance their careers, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and professional growth that leads to enhanced patient care.