Staten Island’s Health Champions Shine at Annual Fundraiser

Raising money while bringing people together isn’t always easy, but an annual event in Staten Island proved it can be done with fun and purpose. Over 350 attendees turned a day at Richmond County Country Club into both a celebration and a fundraiser for a local hospital. Golfers, tennis players, and bocce fans competed during the day, then switched to suits and dresses for an evening of food, awards, and heartfelt speeches. The event supports Richmond University Medical Center, which treats over 300, 000 patients each year. The night honored three individuals for their dedication. Dr. Keith Diaz received the Dr. Stanley Stilwell Memorial Award for his work in pulmonary medicine and community health. Drs. Rita and Lenny Shats earned the Jack Sipp Distinguished Service Award for their long-term contributions. Bob Urs, board president, highlighted how these leaders reflect the hospital’s mission: partnering with patients and families to improve health.A smooth leadership transition took the spotlight too. Dr. Daniel Messina, who led the hospital for 12 years, introduced his successor, Dr. John Evanko. Messina thanked staff and donors, calling the team “second to none. ” Evanko promised to build on the progress, thanking everyone for their support. Dr. Timothy Harrison, board chair, described RUMC as more than a hospital—it’s a family working toward consistent, high-quality care. Dr. Anne Marie Stilwell shared the story behind the award named after her brother, Dr. Stanley Stilwell. After his death from pancreatic cancer, the award became a way to honor his belief in kind, lasting patient relationships. Funds raised help keep the hospital serving the community. Dr. Lenny Shats, a pharmacy leader, emphasized hard work and respect. His wife, Dr. Rita Shats, an OB-GYN pioneer on the island, highlighted her role in robotic surgery and delivering thousands of babies. Both thanked families and colleagues, showing how teamwork keeps the hospital strong. The event also honored Jack Sipp, an attorney who helped shape the hospital’s leadership in the 1970s. Though he passed before a major fundraiser, his legacy lives on through the annual outing and the care it supports.