National Speakers Luncheon raises critical funds to support women’s health at CHRISTUS

The Friends of CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Foundation held its 14th annual National Speakers Luncheon to honor local philanthropists John and Rita Feik with the Beacon Award for their generous service to the community. Emmy-nominated filmmaker Amanda Brinkman was the keynote speaker.

The Friends Foundation thoughtfully selects the Beacon Award honoree from a distinguished group of candidates who exemplify excellence in their professional endeavors, civic leadership and community engagement.

“John and Rita Feik have made extraordinary contributions to San Antonio, leaving an enduring legacy that will benefit generations to come,” said Dr. Ian Thompson Jr., president of the Friends Foundation. “Their continued investment in our city’s future is inspiring, and we are proud to honor them.”

The Feiks have made an impactful difference in the community through their generous support of health care, education and the arts. Their contributions include the Feik School of Pharmacy at the University of the Incarnate Word, CHRISTUS Children’s Oncology, the Feik Family Rotunda at the Tobin Center and the Feik Family Pavilion at the Witte Museum. They have served on numerous boards, including the McNay Art Museum, Texas Biomedical Research Institute and BioBridge Global.

Keynote speaker Amanda Brinkman captivated the audience with her fresh perspective on purpose and her ability to bring heart and humor to the stage. As a corporate leader, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and marketing innovator, she’s a guiding voice for those ready to build lives and businesses that are both purposeful and powerfully impactful.

Proceeds from the luncheon benefit women’s health programs and initiatives at CHRISTUS Health, with a focus on unfunded mammograms offered via the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Mobile Mammography Unit (MMU). The MMU provides screening services using innovative and top-notch technology, along with access to CHRISTUS Health’s integrated care if further diagnostics or treatments are needed. Through philanthropic support, the MMU brings mammograms to underserved areas of our community in Bexar and surrounding counties.