The Gala is an important annual tradition to honor the outstanding contributions of community leaders, dedicated healthcare professionals, generous donors, selfless volunteers, and committed board members who embody unwavering dedication to both Ascension Saint Thomas and the Nashville community.
The highly anticipated 2024 Seton Celebration Gala will take place on Saturday, April 20th at the elegant Conrad Nashville, emceed by the “Voice of the Tennessee Titans,” Mike Keith. A cornerstone of the black-tie event is the induction ceremony of the 2024 Seton Society honorees. This year, the Foundation is honored to recognize three esteemed and highly regarded community members: Amy Adams Strunk, Bill Carpenter, and Dr. Sean Ryan. These exceptional individuals epitomize the values and principles established by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the visionary founder of the Daughters of Charity of Vincent de Paul, whose enduring legacy continues to inspire Ascension Saint Thomas 126 years later.
Amy Adams Strunk, the Controlling Owner of the Tennessee Titans since March 2015 and co-chairman of the franchise’s Board of Directors, has led the team to significant success with six consecutive winning seasons, multiple playoff berths, and notable achievements such as reaching the AFC Championship game in 2019 and securing back-to-back division titles. Her dedication to modernizing the organization has resulted in a staff increase of over 150% since 2015, alongside investments in upgrading Nissan Stadium and Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park. Furthermore, her leadership played a pivotal role in securing approval for a new enclosed stadium on the east bank of the Cumberland River, set to open in 2027. Adams Strunk's community impact efforts extend to supporting disaster relief, aiding local businesses during COVID-19, and contributing to various causes benefiting Nashville and greater Tennessee communities. Beyond football, she holds a degree from the University of Texas and enjoys activities such as horseback riding, farming, ranching, tennis, and outdoor pursuits, sharing these passions with her husband Bill and their three children.
Bill Carpenter is a seasoned business executive known for his contributions to advancing the healthcare industry, corporate governance, and community leadership. Notably, he served as chairman and CEO of Lifepoint Health until his retirement in November 2018, playing a pivotal role in its growth and national recognition for quality and patient safety. Currently, Carpenter chairs the Board of FirstBank Financial Corporation and remains active in community leadership roles, including chairman of the Board of Trustees of Montgomery Bell Academy and member of the Advisory Board for Voices for a Safer Tennessee. With a background in law and degrees from Vanderbilt University, Carpenter has held leadership positions in numerous nonprofits and industry organizations over his four-decade career. He and his wife, Trudy, have three grown children and four grandchildren.
Sean Ryan, MD, is a highly regarded internist based in Nashville. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Ryan currently serves as President of Heritage Medical Associates and has a longstanding affiliation with Ascension Saint Thomas. He has held significant roles within the organization, including past President of the Saint Thomas West Medical Staff and serving on the health system's Board of Directors. Dr. Ryan earned his medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine and completed his residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he was selected as Chief Resident. Beyond his medical practice, he is an avid runner, and he and his wife Elizabeth have two adult children.
“It is an honor to recognize the achievements of Amy, Bill and Dr. Ryan, who have positively impacted our community in countless ways,” said Fahad Tahir, President and CEO, Ascension Saint Thomas. “ Their unwavering dedication to community service and remarkable contributions truly embody the essence of compassion and vision.”
“The Ascension Saint Thomas Foundation is an instrument of healing and community impact, empowered by our donors and community leaders to extend our mission and reach,” said Troy Munn, Vice President of Ascension Saint Thomas Foundation. “It is a privilege to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of our honorees at this year's Seton Gala, inspired by their example and commitment to make a difference.”
The event is open to the public and features a reception, dinner, entertainment, and an inspiring fund-a-need initiative. Tickets and additional information can be found here. Proceeds of the Seton Celebration benefit the work of the Ascension Saint Thomas and support signature service lines, clinical programs and community health outreach.
