A Meal Shared; A Mission Celebrated
Shawn Firehock, Vice Chair of the Saratoga Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, opened the luncheon with a heartfelt message of thanks, honoring the generosity of our Legacy Society members. This remarkable group—now more than 180 strong—has made a lasting difference through their planned gifts to Saratoga Hospital. This year, we proudly celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Legacy Society.
Guests gathered for a warm, family-style luncheon designed to reflect the spirit of the Saratoga Hospital “family” and foster meaningful connections through shared conversation and camaraderie.
Honoring Barbara Ferraro – Recipient of the 2025 Spirit of Philanthropy Award
Shawn went on to describe the Spirit of Philanthropy Award, a recognition of outstanding impact to Saratoga Hospital and the Saratoga community. Shaped like a single tear drop, this award is a symbol of how even the smallest acts of giving can create lasting ripple effects across a community. This year's recipient, Barb Ferraro, is a living example of that principle. Barb is a passionate advocate, a respected leader, and a treasured friend to all who know her.
Nicole Molano, Barb’s daughter and Lisa Higgins, Treasurer of the Foundation Board, shared powerful tributes to Barb’s legacy.
As a Foundation Board member for more than a decade, and in her current role as Board Chair, Barb has helped guide the Foundation to a place of renewed momentum and optimism. Her leadership style—thoughtful, inclusive, and purpose-driven—has helped the board and staff unite under a shared vision for the hospital’s future. Her longstanding dedication to The Flower and Fruit Mission, Cantina Kids Fun Run Committee, and Gala Committee further demonstrate her deep-rooted commitment to advancing health services, especially for women and families.
Although Barb is stepping down from her official role on the Foundation Board, her influence is lasting. Her legacy is seen in the hospital’s growing impact, the community's trust, and in every life her work has touched.
Insights and Vision Forward from Jill VanKuren, President & CEO
Jill VanKuren, President and CEO shared that Saratoga Hospital is thriving, anchored by a strong foundation of quality, safety, and service.
The hospital continues to earn top national recognition, including CMS 5-star ratings and a Leapfrog A grade. She highlighted key efforts to support staff and reduce reliance on agency staffing.
Jill also spoke to the expansion of clinical services across specialties—strengthening care across the region. Significant investments in infrastructure and technology include upgraded operating rooms, advanced diagnostic tools, and the EPIC electronic medical record system, which enables seamless, coordinated care across the Albany Med Health System.
She underscored the importance of “growing our own” healthcare professionals—and invited Dr. Ephraim Back, Director of the Family Medicine Residency Program, to share more about this mission.
Family Medicine Residency – “Growing Our Own Doctors”
Dr. Ephraim Back, MD, MPH, Program Director, delivered an inspiring presentation on the Saratoga Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program, which received accreditation from ACGME in 2022. He outlined the mission to train residents in community-oriented family medicine, with a focus on rural, addiction, and community health.
A central theme of his remarks was the idea of “growing our own doctors.” In a time when recruiting and retaining physicians is increasingly difficult—especially in rural areas—Saratoga Hospital is taking proactive steps to develop local talent. The residency program provides hands-on training, mentorship, and deep community engagement, equipping young physicians with the skills and connection they need to build lasting careers right here in our region.
Dr. Back also discussed exciting future plans, including the potential for fellowships, expanded research opportunities, and national recognition for the residency program.
Center for Successful Aging
Scarlet Clement-Buffoline, MS, FACHE, Vice President of Operations, shared exciting developments from Center for Successful Aging, a new way of care designed to ease the complexities of aging, offering a compassionate, guided experience for patients and their loved ones.
As we plan for a new facility, we’re reimagining how care is delivered to better serve our aging population and their caregivers.
In 2025, our focus includes:
-Coordinated Care: A new centralized Patient Engagement Center will make it easier for patients to schedule multiple appointments in one call—prioritizing convenience and continuity.
-Strategic Recruitment: We're expanding our team to meet growing demand and ensure timely, accessible care.
-Stakeholder Collaboration: We’re engaging clinicians, staff, community members, and aging services partners to help shape this new model.
-Innovative Care Models: Clinical teams are adopting collaborative, patient-centered approaches that also address social determinants of health.
These efforts aim to provide more personalized, integrated care—helping older adults in our community live with greater independence and dignity.