Let’s face it. We owe our very lives to healthcare providers.
With each hug from a grandchild, every enjoyable walk through nature, even the elite athlete thrilling thousands with their incredible abilities, more than likely a healthcare provider has had an impact on someone’s life.
On Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Fort Worth Club, The Business Press honored folks in this profession with the 2025 Class of Advocates for Healthcare Banquet. The evening included fellowship, food and recognition of the industry that is devoted to helping others live the best life possible.
The event, emceed by Business Press Publisher and CEO Shevoyd Hamilton, who co-hosted with his wife and BP Editor Anjie, shined a spotlight on exceptional individuals and organizations that make a difference in this ever-evolving field. Advocates for Healthcare were chosen based on nominations from their peers, clients and the business community.
The evening featured three superlative accolades, two reserved for individuals and one for a business. “All of the honorees have worked tirelessly to serve their community at large,” Hamilton said, adding that each is leaving a legacy.”
Honored as Champion Advocates were Dr. Karen Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the JPS Health Network in Fort Worth; along with Dr. Stuart Flynn, Founding Dean of the TCU Burnett School of Medicine.
“She advocates for those whose voices often go unheard,” Hamilton said of Duncan.
When she took the podium, Duncan joked, “Let’s not drag me near a mic. We’ll be here all night.” However, she admitted that there was, after all, a Dallas Cowboys game to get home to after the banquet. Duncan stated that, along with saving lives, her company’s goals include bringing dignity to people struggling with their health and “For us, it’s about giving that hope.”
When Flynn accepted his award, he drew laughs from the crowd as he pointed to those at his table and said with a smile and chuckle, “My colleagues sitting at the table are dying for me to call them up to have a picture taken. Not happening, folks.”
Receiving the Corporate Champion Award was the James L. West Center for Dementia Care. “Their work in the field of dementia care is trailblazing,” Hamilton said. Upon accepting the award, Dr. Cheryl Harding, President and CEO of the James L. West Center, said her organization is “Looking forward to another 30 years of serving the Fort Worth Community.”
The evening also featured a host of other honored recipients, including:
*Dr. Maria Crompton, Director of Rural Medical Education at the University of North Texas Health Science Center Fort Worth.
*Lachelle Goodrich, founder of CHAMPs Texas (Careers in Home and Medicine Program), which works with high school students interested in the healthcare field.
*Kelly Jones, Executive Director of the Center for Emotional Wellness.
*Dr. Dimitros Karamichos, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at UNT Health Science Center Fort Worth.
“I’ll do my best not to butcher his name – I practiced,” Hamilton said as he introduced Karamichos, who whispered in his ear as he accepted his award, prompting the follow-up that drew more laughs, “He said ‘Close enough.’ I was relieved, especially since he practices taekwondo.”
Then, as he moved on down the list, even more guffaws ensued as he smiled and said, “Oh, here’s another one.”
More honors went to:
*Doricelys Martinez, President and Executive Director of Cuidado Cosero Home Health and Hospice.
*Dr. Frank Papa, CEO of Advanced Curricular Design and Educational Technologies (ACDET), providing curricular design consultation to health professions schools, administrators and faculty.
*David Tesmer, Chief Community and Public Policy Officer for Texas Health Resources.
*American Warriors Association, a nonprofit organization focused on restoring hope and renewing purpose in military veterans, first responders, and their families.
*Atmos Energy, a champion for community health and well-being.
*Beverly Branch and Lyn Walsh, co-founders of the Careity Foundation, providing help for economically challenged cancer patients.
*Dr. Steve Brown, CEO of Summa Bio-Solutions, a stem cell research company.
In closing the evening, Hamilton gave one final salute to the honorees, saying, “May their stories inspire us.”
