Emmis make $1-million donation to Hoag

Corona del Mar philanthropists James and Catherine Emmi have donated $1 million to the Newport Beach-based Hoag Hospital Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the hospital, according to a hospital news release.

It’s the couple’s most recent in a string of yearly contributions dating to 1976.

“Twenty-five years of teaching kindergarten tugs at my heart and makes me want to give back,” Catherine Emmi said in the release. “Jimmy and I have a deep affection for Hoag and feel it is important to support the community we call home.”

The $1-million gift, the news release said, will support the Hoag Neurosciences Institute.

Dr. Michael N. Brant-Zawadzki, who holds the Ron and Sandi Simon Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair of the institute, said in a statement that his department will use the money to help provide innovative treatments not only to improve care for Hoag patients but also to influence neurological care around the country.

Hoag President and CEO Robert Braithwaite lauded the couple’s contributions to the hospital.

“The Emmis have made a true commitment to advancing health in Orange County and beyond,” he said in the release. “Their incredible history of support for Hoag for the past 38 years is exemplary and we are forever grateful for this most generous gift that will allow Hoag to continue to be the leader in innovative and advanced neurological care.”

— Jill Cowan

Twitter: @JillCowan