The Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Foundation recently hosted its dynamic Founders Awards Dinner at the Edgewood Country Club, marking a milestone evening of celebration, philanthropy, and a shared vision for the future of health care.
The event served as a tribute to six founding members of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, whose leadership has been instrumental in evolving Bergen New Bridge into a mission-driven, high-impact health system.
The evening highlighted the extraordinary commitment of six honorees who have shaped the Foundation’s trajectory since its inception:
- Laura Genovese Behrmann, Assistant Vice President, Fortitude P&C Solutions
- Robert S. Brown, President, Digital Voice Network and Chair, Bergen New Bridge Foundation
- John J. Cosgrove, President and Founder, Atlantic Handling Systems and Past Chair, Bergen New Bridge Foundation
- Thomas M. Eastwick, President and Founder, Eastwick College
- Nicholas Laganella, Managing Member, Laganella Property Management and Treasurer, Bergen New Bridge Foundation
- Louis J. Weiss, CEO, WFM Project and Construction, Inc. and Immediate Past Chair, Bergen New Bridge Foundation
“Our Foundation is not just supporting our growth, it is accelerating it,” Deborah Visconi, president and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center said. “Because of them, we are expanding access, advancing innovation, and delivering care in more meaningful and impactful ways.”
The funds raised during the gala are earmarked for critical campus enhancements and advanced technology. A primary focus of these philanthropic efforts is the expansion of the Medical Center’s Emergency Department.
The facility has more than doubled its capacity, now featuring:
- Modern, patient-centered spaces designed for comfort and efficiency.
- Dedicated mental health suites for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises.
- Reduced wait times and improved access to specialized care.
Beyond the Emergency Department, the Foundation continues to strengthen the continuum of care, focusing on substance use disorder treatment, elder care, and support for those living with chronic conditions.
For the honorees, the night was a reflection of years of dedicated service. Robert S. Brown, Foundation Chair and honoree, noted that the evening was a “powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when leadership and purpose come together.”
By bridging the gap between community resources and clinical needs, the Foundation ensures that Bergen New Bridge Medical Center remains a cornerstone of health and hope for the region.
