Manatee Memorial Hospital Celebrates Two Champions at 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards
Vernon DeSear and Mark Goodson Named Champions of Healthcare
Manatee Memorial Hospital is proud to celebrate two extraordinary honorees who were recognized at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards. This event honors individuals and organizations making a significant impact in healthcare through leadership, innovation, and compassionate service.
This year, Manatee Memorial is honored to have winners in two key categories:
Vernon DeSear, Chief Executive Officer of Manatee Memorial Foundation, was named the Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Over more than twenty-five years at Manatee Memorial Hospital, he served in senior leadership roles where he strengthened community awareness, expanded access to essential medical services, and built meaningful connections among physicians, patients, and civic partners. Today, Vernon serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Manatee Memorial Foundation, where he continues his legacy of service through philanthropy and community investment. Under his guidance, the Foundation has provided more than $1 million in scholarships to aspiring healthcare professionals and has contributed substantial funding to nonprofits supporting patients and families. Vernon DeSear’s leadership has strengthened healthcare, elevated education, preserved cultural heritage, and enriched community life across Manatee County.
In the Individual of Merit category, Mark Goodson, Vice Chairman of the Board of Governors for Manatee Memorial, was recognized for his more than 25 years of service on the Board. Mark is helping guide the hospital’s strategic direction, growth, and continued investment in advanced, patient-centered care. In addition, Mark dedicated 16 years to the Manatee Memorial Hospital Foundation Board, including five years as Chairman. In this role, he played a critical part in advancing philanthropic initiatives that directly support patient care, clinical innovation, and community health programs. Mark’s legacy is defined by consistency, longevity, and impact of his service. He exemplifies servant leadership and a steadfast commitment to his community.
“We are so proud to honor Vernon and Mark,” said Colin Weaver, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Manatee Memorial Hospital. “They both exemplify the highest level of excellence in healthcare. Their work not only transforms lives but also strengthens the fabric of our community.”
Manatee Memorial Hospital extends its congratulations to all the 2026 Champions of Healthcare honorees and expresses gratitude to the Manatee Chamber of Commerce for recognizing those who go above and beyond in healthcare every day.
Pictures attached: Vernon DeSear – 2026 Champions of Healthcare Lifetime Achievement Winner, Mark Goodson –2026 Champions of Healthcare Individual of Merit Award Winner
About Manatee Memorial Hospital
Since 1953, Manatee Memorial Hospital (MMH) has been serving the residents of Manatee, Hillsborough, and surrounding counties. The hospital opened the first Interventional Radiology Suite with a biplane in Manatee County in January 2019 to support advanced stroke care and vascular disease. The range of medical services includes emergency medicine for all ages; cardiac; cardiovascular; stroke; surgical; orthopedics; outpatient and inpatient radiology services; rehabilitation; respiratory care; sleep services; oncology; wound care and women’s and children’s services, including Manatee County’s only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. MMH is the county’s oldest teaching hospital, educating today’s physicians for tomorrow through its Graduate Medical Education program. For information on hospital services, visit manateememorial.com.
