Perciak Receives Mighty Oak Award from Southwest General

Mayor Thomas P. Perciak was honored as the 2011 recipient of Southwest General’s prestigious Mighty Oak Award.

Voted on by the Health System Board of Trustees, the award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to for at least 10 years.

“It has been my pleasure to serve and represent the Southwest General family and its community residents for the past 15 years,” Perciak said in a news release. “I can only hope that my time and effort proved beneficial to all the patient care needs for our community residents." 

Perciak has served as chairman of the Southwest Community Health Foundation Board of Trustees for 15 years. In May 2009, he received the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy, Midwest Region, Distinguished Philanthropist award, recognizing him for his many contributions to Southwest General and the community.

Also, Southwest General named , located in Strongsville, after him as a result of the capital campaign he orchestrated.

“Tom’s skill as a consensus builder is outstanding, but he will be remembered equally for being a humble, unselfish and persevering leader,” said Thomas A. Selden, president and CEO, Southwest General. 

Perciak in 1992 served as co-chair of a capital campaign that raised $2.5 million. He served as chairman of the board of trustees from 1996 until this year.

The foundation’s annual fundraising income has consistently exceeded the $1 million mark, much of which is directly attributed to his leadership.

“Tom has been a model for all community hospital board chairs to follow,” said Bobbie Simmerman, executive director of Southwest Community Health Foundation. “He gives generously, asks graciously, leads resolutely and then asks, ‘Is there anything else I can do?’”