HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Foundation held its annual Elizabethan Gala on November 7, raising over $190,000 to support new technology and equipment for HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. The event also marked the hospital’s 150th anniversary.
More than 325 guests attended, which was the highest attendance at the gala since the pandemic. Attendees participated in a cocktail reception, dinner, a short program, and enjoyed live entertainment by Howl at the Moon dueling pianos.
David Garris, Market Director of HSHS Southern Illinois Foundations, commented on the event: “This year’s Elizabethan Gala was a remarkable celebration of our community’s generosity and our shared dedication to the mission of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. As we honor the 150-year legacy of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital providing health care for Southwestern Illinois, it is truly inspiring to see so many individuals and businesses unite in support of the work of our Foundation.”
During the evening, the Foundation presented the 2025 Elizabethan Award to the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis in recognition of their long-standing service to both St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and communities throughout Southwestern Illinois.
Garris added: “The Elizabethan Award was created to honor the continuing partnership between the hospital and the community. It was especially fitting to present the 2025 Elizabethan Award to the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis, the very founders of this partnership, during the hospital’s 150th anniversary. Presenting the award was a true honor and a meaningful tribute to their legacy and the foundation they established.”
The Hospital Sisters of St. Francis first arrived from Germany in 1875 to serve Central and Southwestern Illinois communities by founding several hospitals including St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Belleville (now relocated to O’Fallon), as well as hospitals in Springfield, Litchfield, and Effingham.
The Foundation expressed appreciation for attendees, sponsors, and donors who continue supporting HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital’s mission in providing health care services.
