Sarasota Memorial celebrates 90 years of service

Penicillin had yet to be discovered when Sarasota Memorial Heath Care System first opened its doors in November of 1925. 

Since then the world of medicine has advanced and with it so has SMH. Monday morning hospital administrators, employees and members of the community gathered to mark the 90th anniversary of the hospital with a ceremony within the courtyard tower. 

In the shaded courtyard for which the building is named, Sarasota County Public Hospital Board Chair Marguerite Malone and hospital President and CEO David Verinder recognized members of the community who have had a hand in the hospital's success. 

Present for the occasion was Rep. Vern Buchanan to speak about how the hospital has helped keep families healthy in Sarasota. Today was another cause of celebration for Buchanan who became a grandfather for the second time only 30 minutes before the ceremony. His son Matt Buchanan and daughter-in-law Diana welcomed a baby boy named George at SMH this morning. 

"I've got to get back upstairs and hold my new grandson," Buchanan said. 

Verinder also recognized long-time employees and volunteers. Among them was Jane Boaks who has served a total of 15,401 hours since first volunteering in 1986. Boaks currently serves as Chairman of the Courtyard Tower service, a  volunteer service with approximately 200 volunteers.

Throughout the month of November guests at the hospital are invited to learn about the history through a series of banners on display in the courtyard. Test how much you know about Sarasota Memorial Health Care System with an online quiz and share your memories.