The Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation’s inaugural Champions of Care gala, held March 13 at The Classic Center, raised more than $180,000 to support patient programs and services throughout the hospital.

With more than 325 people in attendance, the evening featured remarks by Piedmont Athens Regional CEO Michael Burnett, who recognized employees past and present, as well as sponsors, donors and volunteers. Benjamin Wilson, M.D., and Zoie Wilson also shared their story and the impact of philanthropy on service improvements at Piedmont Athens Regional. Guests viewed the new “A Day in the Life of the Hospital” video and enjoyed a performance by the A-Town A-List Band.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our sponsors, donors and guests,” said Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation Executive Director Steven Dasher. “Through philanthropy, our community is transforming care and changing lives.”

Piedmont Athens Regional and the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation thank the following 2026 Champions of Care sponsors: presenting sponsor Athens Radiology Associates; Platinum Champion sponsors The SIGN Brothers and Golden Pantry; and Silver Champion sponsors Akins, Corcoran, Georgia Power, Georgia Emergency Medicine Specialists, Haskell, Jittery Joe’s, Level Seven Commercial Cleaning, MCAA, and Elizabeth Steven Scott.

The 2027 Champions of Care Gala will be held Jan. 23, 2027, at The Classic Center. Sponsorship opportunities and ticket sales will open soon.

To learn more about the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation, visit piedmontathensgive.org. Event photos may be viewed at this link with the password Champions. The video “A Day in the Life of the Hospital” is also available here.