Eli, Abby Manning pledge $1M to Children's of Mississippi's 'Growing' capital campaign
A winning play for the health of Mississippi's children was announced as Eli and Abby Manning made a personal pledge of $1 million to the Children's of Mississippi $100 million capital campaign.
The couple, who will lend their names and support to campaign efforts, are serving as honorary chairs and members of the fundraising committee.
Eli Manning, a University of Mississippi alumnus and two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the New York Giants, has previously supported pediatric care at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. In partnership with Friends of Children's Hospital, he helped raise more than $2.5 million to open the Eli Manning Children's Clinics at Batson Children's Hospital, which opened in 2009.
"Abby and I are the parents of three daughters, so we know that the health of your children means everything," Eli Manning said. "We want every family to have access to high-quality care close to home. That is why we opened the Eli Manning Children's Clinics and why we are committed to the future of pediatric care at UMMC."
"Every parent wants their children to have what they need, especially when it comes to medical care," Abby Manning said. "Having compassionate, accessible care nearby is incredibly important to families like ours."
Manning has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, including being named one of the Top 20 Philanthropists Under 40 by The New York Observer and as a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award. His commitment to Batson Children's Hospital is also reflected in his essay, "The Autograph," published in The Players' Tribune.
Joe Sanderson, CEO and board chairman of Sanderson Farms, welcomed the Mannings to the campaign. Sanderson and his wife, Kathy, are campaign chairs and launched the effort with a $10 million gift.
"It is a privilege to work with Eli and Abby Manning on this campaign," Sanderson said. "Their dedication and passion will help bring this vision to life."
The campaign, themed "Growing. So they can grow," will fund major enhancements to pediatric care facilities, including expanding the neonatal intensive care unit, adding pediatric ICU rooms and surgical suites, creating a child-focused imaging department and expanding outpatient services to improve access and convenience for families.
Dr. Jeffery Vitter, chancellor of the University of Mississippi, praised the Mannings' commitment.
"Their generosity reflects the values of service and leadership we strive to instill," Vitter said. "We are proud of their continued support of health care in Mississippi."
Dr. LouAnn Woodward, vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of the campaign.
"Our children's hospital has outgrown its current space," Woodward said. "To provide the best possible care, we must invest in modern facilities and equipment. We are grateful to the Mannings for joining us in this effort."
Dr. Rick Barr, chair of pediatrics, recognized the Mannings, Sandersons and Friends of Children's Hospital as key partners in advancing pediatric care.
"Their support helps us provide the resources needed to improve the lives of children across Mississippi," Barr said.
"We joined this effort because we want the best for Mississippi's children," Eli Manning said. "This campaign will help build a world-class facility, support physicians and give families hope for the future."