AtlantiCare Foundation Raises Over $660,000 Benefiting AtlantiCare’s Workforce Excellence Program and YOUniversity

Nearly 700 supporters gathered for the AtlantiCare Foundation’s 64th Annual Century Club Gala, held May 17 at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Themed The Mad Hatter, the event raised more than $660,000 in support of education, career pathways, and other key Vision 2030 initiatives.  

This year’s gala featured the presentation of two major honors. Gov. Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy received AtlantiCare’s inaugural Community Impact Award, and Kenneth Steinberg and the late Dr. James Eakins were recognized with the Edward R. Knight Award.

Murphy and the First Lady, who were in attendance to accept the honor, were recognized for their visionary leadership and enduring service to communities across the state. Their work advancing maternal and child health, expanding access to healthcare and social services, addressing homelessness, and revitalizing Atlantic City has left a lasting mark on families throughout New Jersey.

The Edward R. Knight Award was presented to longtime AtlantiCare supporter Kenneth Steinberg and posthumously to Dr. James Eakins. The evening was marked by heartfelt tributes to both honorees. This award, established in 1998, honors those who make lasting contributions to building a healthier community. It is named for the late Edward R. Knight, Ph.D., chair emeritus of AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s (ARMC’s) Board of Trustees, who devoted more than 50 years of service to improving healthcare for those who live and work in southeastern New Jersey.

Funds raised at the gala will be dedicated to workforce excellence, one of AtlantiCare’s four key pillars of Vision 2030, an aggressive six-year strategy changing how healthcare is defined, measured, and delivered locally.  Through AtlantiCare YOUniversity, team members can access education reimbursement, professional certifications, and skill-building programs that support their growth while they continue to provide care for the region. These efforts reflect AtlantiCare’s commitment to developing a healthcare workforce that delivers high-quality care and strengthens the community.

“The AtlantiCare Foundation and the support of our donors have been vital to our past achievements and are imperative to our future success,” said Michael Charlton, President and CEO, AtlantiCare.  “The funds raised from this year’s Gala will strengthen our commitment to workforce excellence, a core pillar of Vision 2030. These resources will help us open new career pathways, expand education and hands-on training, and create more opportunities for our team members and community to grow. By investing in our community, we are building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system our region can depend on.”

“It was a privilege to honor Gov. and First Lady Murphy with our inaugural Community Impact Award, and to recognize Ken Steinberg and Dr. James Eakins, in memorium, with the Edward R. Knight Award,” said David Goddard, chair of the AtlantiCare board of trustees. “Each of these individuals has made meaningful, lasting contributions to the health and well-being of our community. Their leadership, compassion and commitment reflect the spirit of service that defines AtlantiCare’s mission and the legacy of Dr. Knight.”

About Governor Phillip D. Murphy and First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy
Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy have dedicated their public service to building a stronger, fairer, and more resilient New Jersey. Together, they have led efforts to expand access to maternal and child health services, strengthen healthcare and social safety nets, and address systemic inequities across the state. Their work has supported economic growth, revitalized communities, and improved quality of life for families from Atlantic City to every corner of New Jersey.

United in their commitment to public service, they continue to shape the future of New Jersey through compassion, policy innovation, and bold, forward-thinking leadership.

About Kenneth Steinberg
Kenneth Steinberg is recognized for his continued service and passionate commitment to AtlantiCare and our community.  Ken has been a steadfast supporter and advisor to AtlantiCare for an impressive 24 years.  His journey began in 1999 when he joined the AtlantiCare Foundation Board.  He has since taken on pivotal roles on the ARMC Board in 2012, the AtlantiCare Health System Board from 2013 – 2017; he then went on to serve on the System Board for 11 years.  Ken’s dedication extends through his service on the Executive, Finance, Capital Campaign, Workforce Management and Governance Committees.  Ken notably led Governance for several years and continues as an active member.  Ken’s commitment extends to other community non-profits, serving as a BIG for Big Brothers/Big Sisters as well as past President for Jewish Family Services and Treasurer of CASA.

About James Eakins, MD
In memorium, Dr. James Eakins dedicated more than three decades of his life to saving others and teaching the next generation of trauma surgeons.  Most recently, Dr. Eakins was the Trauma Program Director at AtlantiCare, where his leadership shone brightly, culminating in his tenure as the Chairman of Surgery.  In 2018, Dr. Eakins was honored with the AtlantiCare Physician Leadership Award, a testament to his exceptional abilities as a leader and caregiver.  His influence extended beyond the operating room as he educated and mentored hundreds of trauma surgeons, leaving an indelible mark on the field and leaving a lasting legacy.

About the AtlantiCare Foundation
The AtlantiCare Foundation was established in 1977 and is committed to improving health outcomes by investing in areas such as food security and the promotion of healthy behaviors to moms, babies, and school-aged youth, mental health services, and access to quality healthcare for underserved communities. The Foundation has also been instrumental in the construction of new facilities, and the addition of cutting-edge treatment and wellness programs at AtlantiCare. Those interested in supporting the Foundation are urged to learn more at AtlantiCare.org/giving.