SALISBURY — Linda and James Freeman were honored with the 2014 Wilson L. Smith Philanthropic Award during Novant Health Foundation Rowan Medical Center’s annual donor appreciation dinner.
The award, presented June 3 at the Catawba College Peeler Crystal Lounge, honored James Freeman’s 25 years of leadership and service to the medical center’s foundation.
Freeman started the foundation in 1988 to raise money for new medical equipment, support staff education and fund building projects. Freeman served as president and CEO of the hospital from 1990 to 2002, when he became president of Rowan Health Services until his retirement in 2008.
Community leaders Paul Fisher, Dr. Thomas Carlton Jr., Dr. Chris Agner and hospital President Dari Caldwell spoke about the foundation’s impact on their lives and noted Freeman’s tireless efforts to secure new medical services and equipment to improve patient care.
Novant Health President and CEO Carl Armato also attended the event.
Freeman thanked the donors and guests for the honor and for partnering to improve health care services for the community.
The Wilson L. Smith Philanthropic Award is presented each year during the annual donor dinner in recognition of exceptional philanthropy, sustained service and loyal support of Novant Health Rowan Medical Center and its foundation.