Last weekend, an influential group of philanthropists, socialites, medical leaders, and supporters gathered under the Sperry tents on Wickapogue Road in Southampton to commemorate the return of an anticipated Hamptons’ fundraiser: the Southampton Hospital Foundation’s 66th Annual Summer Party to benefit Stony Brook Southampton Hospital.

The Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is the sole provider of emergency care on Long Island’s South Fork, offering a diverse array of clinical services ranging from primary medical care to specialized surgical procedures. Ranking as the largest employer on the South Fork with over 1,200 employees, the Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is a crucial, life-saving staple to the East End that deserves philanthropic celebration year after year. 

This year’s gala, co-chaired by Elena A. Ford and Sarah J. Wetenhall, adopted the theme of  “Embracing our Legacy and Envisioning our Future,” to celebrate 66 years of raising essential funds that support healthcare from Westhampton to Montauk. The evening commemorated new leadership at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital headed by Chief Administrative Officer Emily Mastaler, the Southampton Hospital Foundation led by President Julia McCormack, and the Southampton Hospital Association chaired by Jim Forbes. 

“This event started in 1958 and is the longest running charitable fundraiser in the Hamptons,” said Forbes. “The funds we raised help support many programs we have developed and expanded over the last few years including the Audrey and Martin Gruss Heart and Stroke Center, the Phillips Family Cancer Center, the Paulson Family Emergency Department, and our soon to open East Hampton Emergency Department.”

The charitable event also honored Father Alexander Karloutsos and Dr. Daniel Van Arsdale for their unwavering commitment to the East End community. Sarah Wetehnall, a member of the Southampton Hospital Foundation board, praised the duo stating, “Together, we celebrated our rich history while laying the groundwork for a promising future of healthcare for the East End. We were especially honored to recognize Father Alex Karloutsos and Dr. Daniel Van Arsdale for their remarkable work and commitment to our community. Thank you for being part of such a memorable and impactful night."

To kick off the Summer Party, Season 17 “American Idol” contestant Christiaan Padavan serenaded guests as they enjoyed cocktails including The Macklowe’s Gold Fashioned specialty cocktail, and light bites. Guests then made their way to a stunning dinner tent where they enjoyed a luxurious dining experience curated by Elegant Affairs, as well as a wine pairing by event sponsor Wölffer Estate Vineyard. 

The 66th annual fundraiser also included a Paddle Auction hosted by celebrity auctioneer Lydia Fennet, in which guests had the chance to win the “Ultimate Palm Beach Experience,” a week's stay at The Colony Hotel plus other pink paradise pampering, and a 1:1 makeup artistry session at the Jones Road Beauty Palm Beach location. To wrap up the evening, guests enjoyed sweet treats at the dessert bar and hit the dance floor to groove along to music by That 70s Band, New York's leading 70s dance, disco, and funk group. 

"The evening's event was a testament to the incredible spirit of our community. The dedication and generosity shown by our hospital’s supporters is truly inspiring,” added Elena Ford, who is on the Southampton Hospital Association board. “The funds raised will have a lasting impact, enabling us to continue providing exceptional care and innovative treatments. I am grateful to all who contributed to making this night unforgettable.”

Hollis Forbes, Sheila Fuchs, Jean Shafiroff, Melanie Wambold, Cindy Willis, and Joey Wölffer served as Summer Party Vice Chairs, while Rachael Zoe served as Fashion Chair, and Gregory D’Elia, Norah Lawlor, and Lisa Tamburini as Publicity Chairs. Nancy Stone served as Corporate Partnership Chair.