Pardee Hospital Foundation
561 Fleming Street
Hendersonville, NC 28739
828.233.2700
Pardee Hospital Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, tax-exempt by the IRS under code 501(c)3. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Remembering Jane Thompson: A Life of Adventure, Dedication, and Service
Submitted by Myra Grant, former Vice President of Philanthropy for Pardee Hospital and Pardee Hospital Foundation.
Growing up in the Panama Canal zone with her parents, Anton and Azzie Holgerson, and five sisters, Jane’s childhood was shaped by cultural diversity and exploration. The vibrant flavors of local cuisine, particularly the cherished plantains, left an indelible mark on her palate and heart.
Upon relocating from California to North Carolina to be closer to her husband Milton’s roots in St. Simons, Georgia, Jane settled in Saluda. Her journey with the Pardee Hospital Foundation began in 1998 as a temporary campaign assistant during the Foundation’s inaugural capital fundraising effort. Quickly proving her talents, she transitioned into a full-time role as an administrative assistant, financial coordinator, and integral part of signature events like the Pardee Tournament, Gala, and Women Helping Women luncheon.
Colleagues fondly remember Jane’s calm demeanor and remarkable ability to connect with others. Her unwavering assurance and genuine warmth were instrumental in the success of countless events, earning her the admiration of all who worked alongside her.
Jane’s advocacy for Pardee Hospital’s community care was unwavering. She was a staunch supporter of the Women Helping Women program, recognizing its vital role in providing financial assistance to women facing breast cancer and other health challenges.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jane was deeply involved in her community, volunteering with the United Way’s Day of Caring and supporting fundraising efforts for the hospital’s United Way initiatives. Her dedication extended to her church, Church of the Transformation in Saluda, and her extensive family scattered across the USA.
Jane retired in 2014 to care for her husband. She passed away this past December.
As we honor Jane’s legacy, let us continue her mission of service by contributing to the Women Helping Women fund at Pardee Hospital Foundation. In doing so, we ensure that her impact on our community lives on, providing essential assistance to those in need for years to come.
Pardee Hospital Foundation
561 Fleming Street
Hendersonville, NC 28739
828.233.2700
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.