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Awards Presentation at Annual Gala

Pardee Hospital Foundation Announces Physician and Philanthropist of the Year

Pardee Hospital Foundation named Dr. Werner C. Brooks “Physician of the Year” and Greg Burnette “Philanthropist of the Year” at the Foundation’s Black Tie and Boots Gala held at The Horse Shoe Farm, Saturday, June 15.

The Physician of the Year Award is given to a Pardee physician whose career has been defined by medical excellence, dedication to compassionate patient care, and a commitment to improving the lives of people throughout the community. Dr. Werner Brooks was nominated by several of his patients for exemplifying such characteristics. Dr. Brooks joined the Pardee Medical Staff in 1998 at Blue Ridge Bone and Joint. A member of the Henderson County Medical Society, North Carolina Medical Society, and the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, he specializes in general orthopedic surgery, knee and shoulder surgery, sports medicine and total joint replacements. His patients mention his professionalism, exceptional skill, compassion, and advice for follow-up care.

Greg Burnette was recognized as Philanthropist of the Year. The Philanthropist of the Year award is presented to a member of the community who has made outstanding contributions to Pardee Hospital, to Pardee Hospital Foundation, and towards the improvement of community health care. Greg is very active in the community. He is an Area Executive for First Citizens Bank. He has served on numerous non-profit boards, including The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development, Four Sea-sons Hospice, The United Way of Henderson County, the Henderson County Family YMCA and the YMCA of Western North Carolina, and the Pardee Hospital Foundation. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Henderson County Hospital Board of Directors.

“Dr. Brooks and Greg Burnette are both wonderful representatives of our community,” said Kimerly Hinkelman, Pardee Hospital Foundation Executive Director. “Pardee Hospital is a better place because of them and we would not be able to provide the care our community deserves without these individuals. We thank them for their service to Pardee and to our community.”

Andrew Schmidt

Andrew Schmidt joined Pardee Hospital Foundation in November 2023 as a Donor Engagement Officer. Andrew began his career in fundraising at his alma mater, Sewanee: The University of the South, as an assistant director in charge of reunions and volunteers, working on milestone giving campaigns as well as alumni engagement and stewardship events. Andrew holds a BA in Philosophy from Sewanee and recently earned a MA in Applied Arts & Sciences from the Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Andrew previously served the Henderson Country community as an Advancement Analyst at nearby Kanuga Conference Center, where he was responsible for donor database administration, prospect research, and raising funds in support of a $15M capital campaign centered on a comprehensive renovation of the then-47-year-old Kanuga Lake Inn. Andrew looks forward to helping advance the mission of UNC Health and Pardee Hospital Foundation across the Western North Carolina region, and particularly in Transylvania County. When he’s not out and about visiting with donors, you can usually find Andrew scampering around DuPont and Pisgah with his wife, Sara and preschool-age son, Arthur.