The Kim & Greg Ruthven Family Honored as 2026 Philanthropists of the Year by Lakeland Regional Health

Lakeland, FL – During the Lakeland Regional Health Annual Philanthropy Event, the Kim & Greg Ruthven Family was honored with the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year Award in recognition of their extraordinary generosity, leadership, and lasting impact on the community.

The annual celebration recognizes individuals and families whose dedication to philanthropy continues to shape and strengthen the mission of Lakeland Regional Health. The Ruthven family was recognized for their steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare in Central Florida and their partnership with the medical center on several transformative initiatives.

Among their many contributions, the Ruthven family partnered with Lakeland Regional Health to fund major facility upgrades, including the renovation of the emergency department lobby in honor of longtime emergency physician Dr. James Melton. The renovation serves as a tribute to Dr. Melton’s decades of compassionate care and unwavering service to the community.

The evening also celebrated the accomplishments of other distinguished honorees. Suzette Jones received the Sarah D. McKay Advocate of the Year Award for her dedication to supporting the mission and patients of Lakeland Regional Health. Additionally, Dr. James Melton was formally recognized and honored for 38 years of dedicated service in the hospital’s emergency department, where he has impacted countless patients and families throughout his career.

“We are deeply grateful and humbled to receive this recognition,” said Kim and Greg Ruthven. “Lakeland Regional Health plays such a vital role in our community, and it has been an honor for our family to support the incredible work happening every day throughout the organization. We are proud to stand alongside so many individuals who are committed to making a lasting difference for future generations.”

The Annual Philanthropy Event brought together community leaders, healthcare professionals, donors, and advocates to celebrate the spirit of giving and the collective impact philanthropy continues to have on the future of healthcare in the region.

For more information on The Ruthvens, visit www.ruthvens.com.