The Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation will host its annual gala on Sept. 13, at Monmouth University’s Great Hall to raise funds for the “Be the Difference” campaign. This ambitious fundraising effort, which launched in September 2024 with a goal of $1 billion, aims to transform health care in New Jersey.
The evening will honor two key philanthropists: Mary Ellen Harris, president of The Golden Dome Foundation, and Lawrence Inserra, Jr., CEO of Inserra Supermarkets, Inc. and the Inserra Family Foundation. Both have made significant contributions to the health network, with their support enabling major advancements in patient care, research, and medical education.
Honoring a legacy of giving
The “Be The Difference” campaign is more than 70% toward its goal, thanks in large part to the generosity of donors like the honorees. Mary Ellen Harris, through The Golden Dome Foundation, has funded critical projects at several Hackensack Meridian Health locations, including the state-of-the-art Dr. Robert H. Harris Emergency Care Center at Bayshore Medical Center and the Dr. Robert H. and Mary Ellen Harris ZAP-X Center for Noninvasive Neurosurgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Her contributions honor the legacy of her late husband, Dr. Robert H. Harris, a renowned researcher.
Lawrence Inserra, Jr., through the Inserra Family Foundation, has a long history of charitable giving. He has been a dedicated supporter of programs for individuals with diabetes at the Inserra Family Diabetes Institute at Hackensack University Medical Center. Larry Inserra, Jr. also serves as the chair of the Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation and is a member of the “Be The Difference” campaign committee.
An evening of celebration
The gala will feature a private performance by the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire, a high-end menu, and other entertainment. The event’s presenting sponsor is Inserra Supermarkets.
“This year’s gala will continue our commitment to raise vital funding that supports our network’s innovative and compassionate care,” Robert Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health said. “Philanthropy is more important than ever as health systems experience uncertainty about crucial funding that is needed to build stronger communities and major breakthroughs for the people who count on us.”
Funds raised from the event will support the four key pillars of the “Be The Difference” campaign:
- Enhancing the delivery of patient care.
- Accelerating groundbreaking research and discovery.
- Expanding health access for all.
- Revolutionizing medical education while supporting the nursing profession.
