2022 Awardee, Physician Champion

From meeting with donors to serving as a co-medical honoree for the Foundation’s 2020 Celebration, Dr. Smethurst, who is the current chief of staff at Providence St. Joseph, never hesitates when asked by the Foundation for help. Not even at the height of the pandemic.

Dr. Smethurst has had many sacred encounters with patients who have been motivated to make a gift in appreciation for his compassionate care. A patient who credited Dr. Smethurst as one of two physicians who saved his life, reached out to the Foundation to connect with his caregivers. Dr. Smethurst took the time to visit with this patient and his wife, helping the Foundation build a very strong relationship with the couple over the past 18 months. Eventually, the family made a legacy gift to the hospital.

His passion for healing the community touched thousands of patients’ lives and created an everlasting impact for future generations.