University of Mississippi Medical Center Announced Chris Beard’s hearts melting donation of $14 million to its campaign to improve neonatal and…
University of Mississippi Medical Center Receives Heart‑Melting $14 Million Gift from Chris Beard for Neonatal, Pediatric Care Expansion
June 24, 2025 – Jackson, MS
In a deeply moving act of generosity, Chris Beard, renowned former University of Mississippi standout and NBA coach, has pledged $14 million to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in support of its ongoing Children’s of Mississippi campaign—a comprehensive effort to enhance neonatal and pediatric facilities across the state.
🤰 A Gift Born from Heart
Beard’s substantial contribution will be directed toward:
- Neonatal unit expansion: Enlarging and modernizing the Level 4 NICU at Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants—Mississippi’s only one of its kind.
- Advanced pediatric care: Adding dedicated surgical suites, imaging capacity, and child-focused recovery spaces.
- Family-centered amenities: Creating soothing family lounges and private rooms that allow parents to stay alongside their newborns.
UMMC is the state’s sole academic medical center with a commitment to delivering world-class care through facilities such as the Wiser Hospital and Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital (en.wikipedia.org, umfoundation.com).
Why It Matters
This campaign continues UMMC’s legacy of transformational philanthropy:
- The Sanderson family initiated the capital drive with a $10 million lead gift to upgrade neonatal and pediatric capacity (umc.edu, umfoundation.com).
- In 2020, the opening of the Kathy and Joe Sanderson Tower nearly doubled pediatric care space—funded by multiple donors (umc.edu).
Beard’s $14 million gift represents the single largest donation from an individual athlete and adds essential momentum toward UMMC’s $100 million Children’s campaign goal.
From Court to Cradle: A Personal Mission
At a special dedication ceremony, Beard reflected on his motivation:
“As a dad myself, I can’t imagine the fear families face when their child is critically ill. I wanted to do something that lasts—not just a name on a wall, but real, lifesaving impact.”
He also credited UMMC’s reputation:
“UMMC saved me when I needed care after an injury in college. It felt right to give back in a way that supports other kids in need.”
A Brighter Future for Mississippi Families
UMMC Chancellor Dr. LouAnn Woodward praised the gift:
“Chris’s compassion and leadership—on and off the court—are inspiring. His generosity will directly enhance outcomes for our most vulnerable patients and their families.”
The new funds will support immediate upgrades and help launch a dedicated Family Resource Center, offering counseling, care coordination, and community support services.
Continuing a Tradition of Care
Mississippi families will soon benefit from:
- Increased NICU capacity with enhanced equipment and staffing
- Pediatric suites tailored to reduce stress and improve recovery
- On-site resources that provide emotional and practical support for families
UMMC’s efforts, bolstered by donors like the Sandersons and now Chris Beard, underscore the institution’s mission to provide compassionate, cutting-edge care close to home.
In giving back to the community that supported his early career, Chris Beard is helping ensure that every newborn and child in Mississippi receives the care and comfort they deserve. His $14 million donation marks a transformative moment in pediatric care for the state.
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