Angie Muhleisen honored with 2008 Crystal Angel Award
On Friday, May 9, under the glowing stage lights of the Lied Center of Performing Arts, over 150 guests gathered to honor the many angels who support Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital at the annual Angels Society Dinner.
The evening included a spectacular dance performance by New York City-based Troika Ranch, illuminating how art and science blend together in rehabilitation research. In addition, both Sen. E. Benjamin Nelson, D-Neb., and Roger Lempke, retired adjutant general of the Nebraska National Guard, spoke of the life affirming rehabilitation programs Madonna provides to thousands of patients each year. Recently, Madonna gained a partnership agreement with the Veterans Administration, enabling dozens of wounded soldiers to access Madonna’s brain injury evaluation and rehabilitation programs.
Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital President and CEO Marsha Lommel shared photos and stories of patients whose lives had been forever changed through illness or injury, but found hope and healing through the advanced rehabilitation programs available at Madonna. Ms. Lommel asked the audience to think "what if" Madonna was not here to help the thousands of patients who have benefited from the hospital's expertise in brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke and pediatric centered rehabilitation.
Thanks to generous supporters throughout Lincoln, Omaha and across the Midwest who have provided gifts to the Madonna capital campaign, that "what if" question remains unanswered. The campaign has exceeded the halfway point with more than $5.2 million raised toward the $8.5 million goal. These funds will be used to purchase advanced rehabilitation equipment, improve technology and enhance the hospital experience through extensive facility renovations.
Former Crystal Angel Award winner Margie Donlan presented the 2008 Crystal Angel Award to Angie Muhleisen, President and CEO of Union Bank and Trust Co., and longstanding member of Madonna's board of directors. Donlan introduced the award, stating, "When community members think of Angie Muhleisen, words like dedicated, positive, community-conscious, team builder, and most of all – humble – come to mind. This energetic woman has infused the Lincoln community and beyond with her quiet brand of leadership, her grace under pressure and her hope for a bright future."
Both the Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Board and the Madonna Foundation Board have benefited from Muhleisen's leadership over the past 15 years. Her expertise and guidance have helped Madonna grow into a regional rehabilitation hospital and as the current vice chair of the hospital board, she has been instrumental in the success hospital’s current capital campaign.
According to Lommel, "It is often said that if you really need something done, ask a busy person. Angie personifies that. She developed a deep sense of commitment to Madonna's mission and has always been there when we needed her the most. Angie's thoughtful analysis, assistance and generosity are always accomplished in her quiet, understated way."
(left to right) Diane Nelson, Sen. Ben Nelson, Marsha Lommel and Roger Lempke enjoy the 2008 Madonna Angels Society Dinner.
