The Woman’s Board of Day Kimball Hospital (WBDKH) gathered on Thursday, Sept. 13 to mark its 130th anniversary, a significant milestone in the organization’s history. Held at the hospital, the evening was filled with celebration, including dinner, raffles, and heartfelt appreciation from Kyle Kramer, CEO of Day Kimball Health (DKH).

A highlight of the event was the presentation of a state citation by 29th District Senator and Deputy President Pro Tempore, Mae Flexer, who praised the Woman’s Board for its long-standing dedication and service to the community. Sen. Flexer acknowledged the organization’s role in establishing Day Kimball Hospital and its help in sustaining and growing the health and wellness of our communities.

Woman’s Board President Valentine Iamartino gave a captivating presentation on the organization’s history, drawing attention to the pioneering efforts of founders Gertrude and Elizabeth Vinton of Pomfret. She emphasized how the Vinton sisters’ vision for an infirmary to serve the regional community was groundbreaking, especially since their work began more than 30 years before women earned the right to vote. Iamartino expressed admiration for the continued mission of the Woman’s Board noting, “It’s remarkable to think that women were the driving force behind the founding of Day Kimball Hospital, and their concept of an infirmary filled an essential need. 130 years later, we continue to fulfill the initiatives outlined in our charter to raise funds for the hospital.”

Reflecting on her six years as president, Iamartino added, “To lead this incredible group of women with the same desire to support Day Kimball Hospital today as our founders did over a century ago is a true privilege. The commitment and fortitude of this organization are as strong as ever.”

Kyle Kramer also shared his gratitude stating, “The legacy of the Woman’s Board is truly remarkable. Their unwavering dedication to Day Kimball Hospital has indelibly impacted the quality of care we provide. It is no exaggeration to say that this hospital would not be what it is today without the Board’s vision and hard work that began with the Vinton sisters 130 years ago. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a committed group still working to support the hospital’s mission and serve our community.”

Currently working on a pledge of $250,000 for the da Vinci surgical robotic system, the Woman’s Board has made numerous significant contributions over the years, including:

• Purchasing the hospital’s first ambulance in 1920 for $2,500
• Opening the hospital gift shop since 1950
• Purchasing two state-of-the art mammography machines for $107,250
• Purchasing three Anesthesia Carts for $123,000
• Purchasing a Baby Safe Monitoring System for $40,000
• $200,000 for renovations in the Burdick Family Birthing Center

The Woman’s Board of Day Kimball Hospital continues to play a vital role in supporting the hospital’s mission and enhancing patient care through fundraising and volunteer efforts. As it commemorates its 130th anniversary, the organization looks forward to many more years of service to the community.

For more information about the Woman’s Board of Day Kimball Hospital, visit daykimball.org/womansboard. 

Photo Caption: State Senator Mae Flexer (center), 29th District Senator & Deputy President Pro Tempore, presents a citation to the Woman’s Board President Valentine Iamartino (left) in recognition of the Woman’s Board of Day Kimball Hospital’s 130th Anniversary. Joining them is Day Kimball Health CEO Kyle Kramer along with members of the Woman’s Board who attended the Sept. 13th celebration.