The Denver Hospice Welcomes Its First Emeritus Board Members

The Denver Hospice recently celebrated a meaningful milestone, honoring three individuals whose service and leadership have helped shape the organization's history and future


Yesterday, The Denver Hospice hosted a ceremony to introduce the first emeritus board members of Hospice of Metro Denver, doing business as The Denver Hospice. The inaugural honorees are Adele Phelan, Evi Makovsky, and Dr. David Scanavino.

Celebrating a Legacy of Service

Adele Phelan attended the ceremony to accept her honor. She received a commemorative acrylic plaque for her home and a framed photograph that will be displayed on the new emeritus board wall at the Amy Davis Center, the administrative building shared by Care Synergy and The Denver Hospice.

During the presentation, Care Synergy President and CEO Tim Bowen reflected on Adele's many years of volunteer service and the meaningful role she played in helping The Denver Hospice listen to and learn from the families it served. By communicating family feedback to the organization, Adele helped inform positive changes that strengthened the organization's work.

Following the presentation, Adele shared her hopes for the continued success of The Denver Hospice and its Affiliates, reflecting the lasting connection she maintains with the mission.

Evi Makovsky and Dr. David Scanavino were also inducted as emeritus board members, though they were unable to attend the ceremony.

Why Emeritus Board Members Matter

Strong organizations are built on the dedication of many people over time. While leadership and board membership may change, the knowledge, experience, and relationships developed through years of service remain valuable resources.

Emeritus board members help preserve that institutional knowledge. They understand the organization's history, the challenges it has navigated, the decisions that have shaped its direction, and the values that have remained constant throughout its evolution. Their perspective can help current leaders and board members understand how past experiences inform present-day decisions.

Just as importantly, emeritus board members represent a continuing connection to the people and communities at the heart of an organization's mission. Adele's contributions demonstrate how listening to families and bringing their experiences forward can help drive meaningful improvements in care.

Recognizing former board members through emeritus appointments is more than a gesture of appreciation. It acknowledges that leadership and service leave a lasting legacy, and that the lessons learned along the way can continue to benefit an organization for years to come.

Honoring the Past and Looking Ahead

The Denver Hospice is grateful to Adele Phelan, Evi Makovsky, and Dr. David Scanavino for their service, leadership, and enduring commitment to the organization's mission.

As their photographs join the new emeritus board wall at the Amy Davis Center, they will serve as a visible reminder of the people whose dedication has helped shape The Denver Hospice and the importance of carrying that knowledge forward.

We look forward to building on this legacy as we continue serving patients, supporting families, and strengthening our commitment to compassionate care throughout our community.
 
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