Katie Couric Inspires at East Hampton Emergency Department Fundraiser Luncheon

On July 13, 2023, the annual East Hampton Emergency Department fundraiser luncheon witnessed a captivating speech by the renowned journalist, health advocate, and philanthropist, Katie Couric. Held at the picturesque Maidstone Club, the event drew an audience of over 200 guests, eager to hear Couric’s insights and support the vital healthcare initiative.

An Advocate for Accessible Healthcare: Katie Couric, an East Hampton resident, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting the much-needed facility that will undoubtedly save lives throughout the East End. As an ardent advocate for access to quality and affordable healthcare, Couric’s presence added significance to the fundraising luncheon.

A Journey Through Life: Chaired by prominent East Hampton residents, the event featured a compelling Q&A session between Couric and fellow journalist Martha McCully. Couric shared remarkable stories from various stages of her life, from breaking barriers as a young female journalist in a male-dominated media landscape to overcoming personal tragedies and becoming a health activist and fundraiser. Her journey, as captured in her New York Times bestselling book, “Going There,” left the audience in awe.

A Star-Studded Gathering: The luncheon boasted an impressive guest list, including President Maurie McInnis of Stony Brook University, Sheila Rogers of the East Hampton Healthcare Foundation, philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, Anne Keating, Veronica Atkins, Sarah Wetenhall, and more. Among the attendees was Mireya D’Angelo, a banker and SoulCycle instructor, accompanied by her musician daughter Sophia D’Angelo and influencer Clara Perlmutter.

Supporting East Hampton Emergency Department: The annual benefit aimed to raise funds for the new Stony Brook Medicine East Hampton Emergency Department, currently under construction and set to open its doors in Fall 2024. This year’s luncheon, organized by the Southampton Hospital Foundation, marked the most successful and highly attended event to date.

Katie Couric’s Impact: Ken Wright, Chair of the Southampton Hospital Association, expressed gratitude to Katie Couric for her invaluable contribution in supporting the project. As a pioneering figure in media and healthcare, Couric’s influence continues to positively impact the world. Her support as a neighbor and advocate holds immense value for the community.

Enhancing Healthcare Services: The East Hampton Emergency Department will be part of the Stony Brook Medicine healthcare system, delivering essential services to the East Hampton communities. With approximately 22,000 square feet of space, the facility will feature cardiac monitoring in every exam room, a dedicated suite for advanced imaging, fast-track treatment rooms, resuscitation rooms, and more. Eco-friendly initiatives, such as rooftop solar panels, a rain-catch garden, and native plantings, will further reduce its environmental impact.

In conclusion, Katie Couric’s inspiring presence and the overwhelming support from attendees have brought new hope and enthusiasm to the cause of accessible healthcare in East Hampton. The partnership between Stony Brook Medicine, the Southampton Hospital Foundation, and the East Hampton Healthcare Foundation has paved the way for a groundbreaking medical facility that will undoubtedly make a difference in countless lives on the East End.

To learn more, visit www.stonybrookmedicine.edu