Celebrating Our Incredible Donors at La Gratitude 2025!

At CentraCare Foundation, we believe that the power of generosity transforms health care. On May 8 in Spicer and May 15 in St. Cloud, we had the privilege of hosting our annual La Gratitude, a special evening dedicated to recognizing the donors who make our mission possible.

Throughout the night, we celebrated the individuals, families, and organizations who have made a lasting impact on patient care and our communities. From heartfelt testimonials to inspiring success stories, the event showcased the tangible difference that philanthropy creates in the lives of those we serve.

Holly Gulden, Vice President of CentraCare Foundation, explained how those honored at the event are leaders who are crucial to making rural life healthier. “These are the people who buoy us up at CentraCare. They are role models. They talk about their passions to their family and their friends across their community. They are the rock-solid base of who we are and without them, we would not be nearly as successful. We are grateful for their time and energy.”

We extend our deepest gratitude to our donors and supporters. Because of your commitment and compassion, we continue to provide life-changing care and drive innovation in health services.

Relive the special moments by watching highlights from the nights below.

May 8 in Spicer

Kelly O'Farrell CentraCare Foundation’s Board Chair, Kelly O’Farrell, hosted the La Gratitude celebration in Spicer, and spoke about why this kind of recognition is important.

“The honorees are very special. They've been integral to continuing the CentraCare mission through service or contributions through the years. I think it's important for us to honor the people who have really given their time and talents to CentraCare, and to let people know why that’s essential.”

2025 Service to the Foundation Award: Cindy Firkins Smith, MD

Cindy Firkins Smith, MD

This award recognizes benefactors for their work, commitment, and generosity as philanthropists as well as their “over the top” service to CentraCare.

2025 Rising Star Award: Allen (Bert) Stanley, RPH

Bert Stanley

This award recognizes benefactors for their dedication, commitment, involvement and philanthropy to CentraCare.

2025 Caduceus Award: Deb Peterson, MD

Deb Peterson, MD

This award is presented to a physician who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and humanitarian and/or charitable medical efforts to their community. The Caduceus Award nominees are nominated by their peers and selected by members of the Caduceus Committee.

From left: Ken Holmen, MD; Holly Gulden; Bert Stanley; Debra Peterson, MD; Cindy Firkins Smith, MD; Chip Martin-Chaffee, MD; and Kelly O' Farrell

May 15 in St. Cloud

CentraCare Foundation Board Vice Chair, Tom D. St. Hilaire, spoke at the La Gratitude celebration in St. Cloud.

“This event helps me see the impact people are making every day. The honorees give in ways they believe will strengthen our community—and our community has been strengthened! I am deeply moved by their generosity and commitment over the years. We can all feel good about the impact we are making.”

2025 Lifetime Achievement Award: John & Cherie McDowall

John & Cherie McDowall

This award recognizes benefactors for their years of giving and service to CentraCare, as well as community engagement and history of generosity.

2025 Rising Star Award: Janet & Chuck Andres, MD

Janet & Chuck Andres, MD

This award recognizes benefactors for their dedication, commitment, involvement and philanthropy to CentraCare.

2025 Service to the Foundation Award: Duane & Kim Koepp

Duane & Kim Koepp

This award recognizes benefactors for their work, commitment, and generosity as philanthropists as well as their “over the top” service to CentraCare.

2025 Corporate Partner of the Year: K. Johnson Construction, Inc.

K. Johnson Construction, Inc.

This award recognizes a corporate partner who has made philanthropic contributions, event sponsorships, cause marketing, and/or in-kind donations that have greatly impacted the mission of CentraCare.

From left: Ken Holmen, MD; Chuck Andres, MD; Janet Andres; Erik Johnson; Tessa Johnson; Kevin Johnson; Julie Johnson; Kim Koepp; Duane Koepp; Cherie McDowall; John McDowall; and Holly Gulden

We look forward to another year of partnership and progress. Together, we are shaping the future of health care!