While generating support for the future of healthcare locally, Newman Regional Health also paid tribute to the past during the 2026 Denim and Diamonds Gala and Auction Friday evening.
The annual fundraiser, again held in the Memorial Union of Emporia State University, took time to honor this year’s legacy award winner, Dr. James Glenn, the first orthopedic surgeon in Emporia. Dr. Glenn came to Newman in 1973 and provided care to thousands of patients up until his retirement in 2008.
During Friday’s event, many paid tribute to him as a trailblazer and a source of inspiration for many in the field today. Dr. Glenn humbly stated that he appreciated the praise and recognition, but noted his main focus was simply to deliver the best result for all who came to him for care.
During his comments to the public Friday, Dr. Glenn also stated he was not on the stage simply for himself, but for all who have chosen healthcare as their profession.
Also honored Friday night was the late Dr. James “Jim” Geitz, who, in addition to his more than four decades of service as a local physician, was also known for his service to the healthcare field locally as both a former Chief of Medical Staff and a multiple-term member of the Newman Board of Directors. Dr. Geitz passed away earlier this year and in his honor, Newman announced it has established the Dr. James “Jim” Geitz Community Medicine Internship.
Dr. Geitz’s son Jon Geitz spoke with KVOE News following the announcement and says that while his father would have been “Embarrassed” by the spotlight, he knows he would have been proud to see his memory continuing to impact others.
Jon Geitz also stated that their family was humbled by the honor and stated that he and his own children are often reminded of the incredible impact his father had on so many lives.
After paying tribute to those who helped lay the foundation of Newman as it is known today, the evening shifted to the annual live auction, which, in addition to the silent auction, was generating funds to support upgrading surgical equipment upgrades across the hospital’s various medical departments. Once the fundraising wrapped up, attendees were treated to a world-class concert from renowned country music artist Frankie Ballard.
Fundraising totals from Denim and Diamonds are currently pending. For a YouTube Short of Ballard’s performance, click here.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
