Though their tickets said “18th Annual Penn Presbyterian Medical Center Gala,” attendees at this much-anticipated event may have thought they’d been transported to a particularly festive college basketball game as they entered Vie last month. Cheerleaders waved pom poms and welcomed guests as the Penn Band, led by the Quaker mascot, filled the hall with music. A referee — inexplicably on stilts — jauntily strolled through the sea of guests and carried a jersey emblazoned with the number 17. And when the Most Valuable Player arrived, the crowd roared in celebration.
With its All-Star theme, the gala recognized the passions of this year’s “hospital hero” — sports mega-fan and health care visionary Ralph W. Muller, CEO of the University of Pennsylvania Health System — and brought together community members and faculty and staff from across the health system to celebrate Muller’s years of game-changing service and transformative “coaching” ahead of his departure in June.
Penn Leaders Reflect On A Legacy
“I’ll never forget the insights that Ralph shared about how health care was changing. He would say, ‘know your fans.’ If you look at the heat maps where fans of various sports teams are coming from, it reflects how health care relationships are going to be established. It was brilliant!” — Jan L. Bergen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health
“Everything about health care is important to him, from soup to nuts. The bricks and mortar that we’ve built, the complex care that we deliver, the high-end specialists that we have, the primary care service line that we’ve developed, the patient experience, the experience for employees — he’s addressed all of it over the course of his career.” — Patrick J. Brennan, MD, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
“He sees health care in a much broader context than most people do. And I think his genius was that he brought that perspective to all of us — not just to just think like we’re delivering a product, but we’re part of a health care fabric in a society that is struggling to figure out the best way to deliver it.” — Peter Quinn, MD, DMD, Senior Vice President and Vice Dean for Professional Services
One highlight of the evening was the unveiling of a video commemorating Muller’s top three plays for success: Go Big, Perfect the Basics, and Play Like a Champion. Phil Okala, Chief Operating Officer, and Lee Dobkin, Chief Counsel, took on the role of sports commentators and discussed how Muller’s willingness to take educated risks, his unwavering focus on quality, safety, and financial strength, and his steadfast belief “in his players, his team, and the brand” not only established Penn as a national powerhouse, but ensured his lasting legacy as a “legendary coach and leader.” Members of leadership across the health system also shared their reflections on Muller’s innovative spirit — plus a few favorite quotes.
Even individuals unable to make it to the gala found a way to honor Muller, including J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD, executive vice president of the University of Pennsylvania for the Health System and dean of the Perelman School of Medicine, David Blitzer, co-managing partner of the Philadelphia 76ers, and Dick Vermeil, former head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs.
“Ralph’s visionary leadership is imprinted on every aspect of our national reputation and strategic growth plan. His strong civic engagement and track record of community development and service have also propelled him to MVP status, and he has created an innovative and collaborative environment for future generations,” said Michele Volpe, CEO of PPMC. “In his honor, the proceeds of this celebration will benefit the creation of a new Community Pipeline Program from Penn Medicine Academy.”
The Penn Medicine High School Pipeline Program provides opportunities for talented youth in West Philadelphia to begin their careers in health care through year-round internships and credit-bearing college courses. Since its inception, 275 students have gained exposure to health care and related fields, received career and life guidance from Penn staff, and have gained knowledge and skills that can prepare them for a future brimming with possibilities. With more than $260,500 raised through the gala’s sponsorships, ticket sales, and a silent auction — featuring artwork, Phillies tickets, and even an animal meet-and-greet at the Philadelphia Zoo — Penn Medicine Academy will be able to create additional pipeline programs to connect members of our community to employment in the health system.
Thank you to everyone who attended this year’s gala and generously donated; your sponsorship will ensure PPMC’s continued investment in developing the health care workforce of the future, empowering our community, and perpetuating the legacy of our all-star head coach.