$16 million gift for expansion of trauma and surgical services from Saunders family

Providence Holy Cross Medical Center has announced a transformative $16 million gift from Julian and Gladys Saunders, marking the largest single contribution in the hospital’s 64-year history.

The landmark donation will fund the construction of two cutting-edge operating rooms and a comprehensive renovation of the hospital’s trauma room within the emergency department.

In a milestone development for the medical center, the gift will also establish its first-ever endowed chairs, designed to bolster clinical leadership and innovation in both trauma and palliative care.

“This extraordinary gift from the Saunders family aligns with a remarkable groundswell of generosity from across our community, which is magnifying its impact in incredible ways,” said Joanne Reyes, president and chief philanthropy officer of Providence Holy Cross Foundation.

“When Julian and Gladys Saunders made their gift commitment, they expressed a clear and passionate belief in the future of Providence Holy Cross and the enduring power of philanthropy to shape it. Today, that vision is taking root through meaningful improvements to care and leadership.”

The new Julian and Gladys Saunders Endowed Chair in Trauma Care will be held by Dr. David Hanpeter, medical director of trauma services at Providence Holy Cross.

Dr. Marwa Kilani, the hospital’s medical director of palliative care and current chair of the Providence Holy Cross Foundation board, will serve as the inaugural holder of the Julian and Gladys Saunders Endowed Chair in Palliative Care.

“This gift is more than a financial milestone — it’s a reaffirmation of our mission and the excellence of our caregivers,” said Dr. Bernie Klein, chief executive of Providence Holy Cross Medical Center.

“Julian and Gladys Saunders demonstrated a profound commitment to advancing health care in our region. Their belief in the vital role our medical teams play ensures we can now expand our capabilities and meet the community’s evolving needs with even greater strength.”

Construction and renovations funded by the gift are expected to begin in the coming months, with the endowed chair programs launching this year to support leadership in two of the hospital’s most vital specialties.