UH Foundation Raises $205,000, Honors Dr. Lisa Gittens-Williams at Annual Toast & Tribute

NEWARK, NJ – University Hospital Foundation raised more than $205,000 at its 5th Annual Toast & Tribute on April 16 at The Avenue A Club in Newark, fueling critical efforts to improve maternal health outcomes at University Hospital. The evening honored Lisa Gittens-Williams, MD, for her leadership in expanding access to care and addressing disparities in maternal health across Newark and throughout the state.

A respected physician, educator, and advocate, Dr. Gittens-Williams has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for mothers and babies. Through her work at University Hospital and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Dr. Gittens-Williams has advanced equitable, patient-centered care and collaborated with statewide and national maternal health initiatives, broadening her impact well beyond the hospital setting. Her efforts span clinical care, education, and advocacy, with a focus on ensuring underserved communities have access to the support and resources needed for safer pregnancies and healthier futures.

Maternal health remains a critical issue in New Jersey, where significant disparities persist in outcomes for women of color. Thanks in part of the efforts of Dr. Gittens-Williams, University Hospital is actively addressing these challenges by providing comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care while leading efforts to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality through innovation, education, and community engagement.

“University Hospital Foundation is proud to recognize Dr. Gittens-Williams for her unwavering commitment to advancing maternal health,” said Jessica Backofen, Chief Development Officer. “Her work reflects a powerful blend of leadership and compassion that continues to improve outcomes for patients and families across our community.”

Since 2022, Toast & Tribute has raised funds for critical University Hospital initiatives, including patient assistance programs and free breast cancer screenings for uninsured women.

“The impact Dr. Gittens-Williams has made on the community reflects University Hospital and the Foundation’s shared promise to ensuring all patients receive the dignity and quality care they deserve,” said Calvin Ledford, Jr., Chair of University Hospital Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

University Hospital Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to its Board of Trustees, event sponsors, and the many supporters who help advance its mission through contributions and participation in events such as Toast & Tribute and the annual Golf Classic. Toast & Tribute’s top sponsors this year included Health Advocates Network, HDR, PSE&G, and Pulse Medical Transportation, along with numerous other organizations and individuals whose generosity of time, effort, and funding helped make the event a success.

To learn more about University Hospital Foundation or to make a gift, please visit uhnjfoundation.org.