Seen In Aspen: Memorial Hermann Foundation’s Elevated Connections Attract Houstonians

Chic Mountain Retreat Provides A Majestic Backdrop For Mountain-Style Fundraising

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Priscilla Dickson

THE SCENE: Approximately 140 Houstonians headed to Aspen for a two-day event that celebrated and created deeper community relationships between one of Houston’s most impactful philanthropic organizations and its generous base of donors. The guests turned out for Elevated Connections, hosted by the Memorial Hermann Foundation. The annual events feature an impressive series of events meant to inform, entertain, and celebrate the remarkable impact the organization has had on the Houston Community over the years.

THE VIBE: The mountain-chic crowd sported a fun array of sunny and summery ensembles as they navigated a busy two days of programming. In the crowd, one could spot all colors of the rainbow mixed in with bold prints. Many women donned their favorite print dresses while men sported a mix of sport coats and vests to keep them warm in the crisp, mountain air.

The festivities kicked off at the renowned Hotel Jerome for an intimate breakfast. Here, Memorial Hermann Health System CEO, Dr. David Callender, engaged with VIP guests, who were treated to an update by him on the latest innovations in patient care and community outreach.

After breakfast, guests then headed to a new addition to the programming in 2025 with Mimosas and Marys. During this event, Amy Pierce introduced a new Memorial Hermann Foundation women’s initiative that will focus on philanthropy and education initiatives addressing women’s issues. Additionally, patrons were also offered a sneak peek at the Fall 2025 Razzle Dazzle Luncheon that will feature Hoda Kotb as a special guest speaker.

That evening, revelers headed to Betula restaurant for an art-themed cocktail reception hosted by many of the foundation’s most prominent supporters. During the cocktail reception, Memorial Hermann Foundation CEO Anne Neeson, Dr. David Callender, and Dr. Michelle McNutt addressed the audience and shared emotional and inspiring stories that highlighted the organizations cutting edge care including Memorial Hermann Life Flight, Red Duke Trauma Institute, the areas only level one trauma center that offer both pediatric and adult care, and the rehabilitation services of TIRR Memorial Hermann for post-acute care.

The festivities concluded where it all began at the Hotel Jerome for a finale brunch al fresco. Featuring a French flower market theme, the crowd gathered in a beautiful, sun-drenched garden that showcased a lush array of florals, beautifully complemented by striped awnings. Here, against the backdrop of mighty mountains and a lovely scent of lavender in the air, attendees had the chance to sip an array of spirits and obtain a made-to-order bouquet from a flower cart to serve as a takeaway and a keepsake, capping off a beautiful two-day retreat in the mountains.

THE NON-PROFIT: Elevated Connections highlights the work of the Memorial Hermann Foundation. The event highlighted the numerous innovative and cutting-edge medical initiatives that have made Houston a world-class city for medical care. Among them is Memorial Hermann Life Flight, which is a helicopter network that transports those with life-threatening, traumatic, and critical injuries.