Luke Gregory, Chief Executive Officer of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, will serve as honorary co-chair for the 2017 Iroquois Steeplechase.
The Volunteer State Horsemen’s Foundation, a nonprofit organization, and Children’s Hospital appoint individuals with close ties to their respective organizations as honorary chairs for the Iroquois Steeplechase, one of the nation’s premier horse races. The people selected are recognized for their efforts to advance the Iroquois Steeplechase as a philanthropic and world-class sporting event.
Long considered Nashville’s rite of spring, the race draws more than 25,000 spectators who come out to support the event, which benefits Children’s Hospital. Since designating Children’s Hospital as the official charity in 1981, the Steeplechase has raised more than $10 million for the hospital. The 76th annual race is set for Saturday, May 13, at Percy Warner Park.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Children’s Hospital as an honorary co-chair of the 76th annual Iroquois Steeplechase,” said Gregory. “We are very thankful for the longstanding partnership with the Iroquois Steeplechase and for the organization’s tremendous support for and understanding of what it takes to provide the very best in care for the children of Middle Tennessee and beyond.”
Gregory has served as CEO of Children’s Hospital and Clinics since 2010, taking on the post as the hospital began a multi-phase expansion to address growing needs for inpatient bed spaces and outreach services.
His career in health care administration includes 35 years of experience in the field. Gregory joined Vanderbilt in 2007 as senior vice president and chief business development officer in the Office of Business Development.
He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), and received the 2013 Regent’s Award from the ACHE for his years of service and leadership to health care management. He holds degrees from Emory University, Vanderbilt and Georgia State University.
Patient ambassador Ansley McLaurin, 10, of Hendersonville, Tennessee, also will represent Children’s Hospital to help raise awareness for the place she began receiving care for a rare cancer just before her third birthday.
On race day, gates open at 8 a.m., and the first race begins at 1 p.m.
There are several options for attendance, including box seating, tailgating, hospitality tents, general admission and a free family area featuring activities for children ages 12 and under.
For more information about the Iroquois Steeplechase, its 76th anniversary and its relationship with Children’s Hospital, go to www.iroquoissteeplechase.org.
