Honoring Service, Leadership, and Philanthropy 2021 Jack Clark Award Recipients McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation honored Karen DenBesten, MD; Steve Eibling, and Moon Seagren with the Jack Clark Philanthropy and Service Award at a celebration on July 19. The award was presented by Elise Fisher, Chair of the McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation Board of Trustees. “Traditionally the Jack Clark Award is only given to one person each year,” said Fisher. “But in 2021, we decided there were several individuals we wanted to honor. Each of them has made an incredible impact on McLaren Northern Michigan and our community as a whole.” Recipients of the Jack Clark Philanthropy and Service Award are nominated by the McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation Board Executive Committee.
“We appreciate all of our Jack Clark Award winners. All of them have supported the work of the hospital and foundation in countless ways—they are examples of dedication, compassion, and service to our patients.” Julie Jarema Chief Development Officer, McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation
Karen DenBesten, MD, Infectious Diseases, received the award for service. “Dr. DenBesten has led all of us throughout the pandemic,” said Fisher. “She has been a voice of caution, reason, and expertise, offering ongoing communication and developing protocols to keep patients, staff, and the community safe. We are grateful for her service.” Longtime member of the McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation Board of Trustees, Steve Eibling, received the award honoring his commitment to philanthropy for the organization. Steve served from 2003 to 2017 and oversaw the disbursement of $25.4 million during his tenure. He steered the Foundation through important financial milestones including the building of the Demmer Wellness Pavilion. Moon Seagren, former Vice President and Chief Development Officer of McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation, received the award for leadership.
McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation Board Chair, Elise Fisher, presented the Jack Clark Philanthropy and Service Awards to Karen DenBesten, MD (left); Moon Seagren (center), and Steve Eibling (right). The award recognizes these individuals’ philanthropy, leadership, and service to McLaren Northern Michigan and McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation.
“Moon led the Foundation staff for 20 years. She is a visionary who built this Foundation from a small team into a driving force behind hospital success. She oversaw the growth of the organization, pursuing gifts that enabled her to preside over the disbursement of more than $64 million during her time here,” said Fisher.
About Jack S. Clark The late John S. Clark was an attorney and civic leader. Born in Bad Axe, Michigan, he practiced law in the Detroit area until moving to Petoskey in 1946 and sat on the Foundation board from 1985 - 2003. His strong sense of civic duty and deep commitment to helping the people in our communities made him a legend to many. McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation was one of many organizations that benefited from his involvement and philanthropic support. Jack’s warm smile, gentle manner, and endless generosity will always be remembered. Past recipients of the award include Thomas Fairbairn, Sr.; Miles Trumble, MD; Walter Fisher; John Demmer; The Offield Family Foundation—Jim and Packy Offield; Elise Fisher; Ann P. Stallkamp; Robert “Ham” Schirmer; Susanna Souder; Fay and Larry Buhl, and Gunner Deery, MD. McLaren.org/NorthernMichiganFoundation | 231-487-3500
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