BRADFORD, Pa. — The Bradford Hospital Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bradford Regional Medical Center, hosted its first local in-person event since the COVID pandemic. The event was called Pathways to Progress with a reception that included the presentation of the SARAH Award.
Dr. Jill Owens was honored for her distinguished career and advancement of healthcare locally in the Bradford community.
The event was hosted at The Bradford Club on Thursday, bringing together BHF, community leaders and supporters of local healthcare.
“It was so good to see so many community members attend this event of the Bradford Hospital Foundation. The first step in our future success is uniting a body that is passionate, energetic and committed to the future of Bradford Regional Medical Center and Olean General Hospital,” said Shane Oschman, BHF chairman. “Just seeing people visit and connect was so refreshing and, I think, positions us well to continue to implement systems for fundraising that celebrate successes and proactively address concerns.”
The SARAH Award (Securing Achievable Results in Advancing Healthcare) was established by BHF in memory of Sarah Blaisdell Dorn, a woman who had a love for Bradford and made countless contributions to many community organizations.
Ron Orris, executive director of the Philo and Sarah Blaisdell Foundation, once stated, “Sarah has a big heart for Bradford and wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of.”
The Bradford Hospital Foundation board selected Owens as the 2025 recipient as she exemplifies this award through her demonstration of steadfast commitment to providing healthcare for over two decades to the Bradford community she calls home.
“From her early days establishing a thriving family practice to her leadership as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Owens has exemplified excellence in medicine and administration,” Orris said. “Dr. Owens is a leader who listens, who acts, and who stands alongside her team.”
Orris added that, under her leadership, BRMC and Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic but “emerged as a stronger, more resilient” healthcare system.
“Dr. Owens has ensured that BRMC/OGH continues to be a beacon of hope and healing for rural healthcare,” he said.
Past recipients of the SARAH Award include Zippo Manufacturing and Philo & Sarah Blaisdell Foundation, Father Leo Gallina, Jeannine Schoenecker and attorney Stanley E. Pecora. Also in attendance were state Sen. Cris Dush and state Rep. Martin Causer, who both presented Owens with citations for her diligent work in local healthcare.
Stacy Williams, executive director of BHF, closed the evening thanking the attendees for their presence.
“It is a powerful reminder of the collective passion, generosity and commitment that makes BHF’s mission possible,” Williams said.
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