Edmonton, AB – June 14, 2023

The University Hospital Foundation (UHF) has acquired The Friends of University Hospitals (Friends) through the assumption of Friends’ net assets with plans to close the transaction on July 10, 2023. Friends is a not-for-profit organization at the University of Alberta Hospital (UAH) that uses a multidisciplinary model to enhance patient experience, including: delivering evidence-based art programs to enhance patient health and wellness like Artists on the Wards program; offering emergency hygiene supplies and flowers to patients through the Nancy Lieberman Fund; managing the McMullen Gallery, which exhibits curated exhibitions that reflect the sensibilities and experiences of patients; operating the on-site gift shop and more.

This acquisition, passed through a rigorous due diligence process and a special vote by the boards of both organizations, allows UHF to further our commitment to support the health of patients. It also provides additional revenue opportunities for UHF to continue to activate donor dollars to transform health in our region.

“This is an exciting step in our work at enhancing the patient experience and care through our strategic plan, Ignite 2030,” shares Joette Decore, Board Chair of UHF. “We look forward to welcoming the Friends team members and working together to continue providing support to the many UAH staff, patients and families who visit the hospital.”

“The Friends of University Hospitals is looking forward to the future growth of our programs as a part of one of the most successful hospital fundraising organizations in Canada. Uniting with the University Hospital Foundation will allow us to increase our impact on the hospital community in ways we have only imagined,” says Chair and Director of The Friends of University Hospitals, Leonie Nadeau.

Created in 1962, the University Hospital Foundation raises funds to advance patient care and innovation at the University of Alberta Hospital, the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute and the Kaye Edmonton Clinic. In the decades since, we have evolved into one of the most successful hospital fundraising organizations in Canada. Situated at the nexus of philanthropy, health sciences and academic research within Alberta’s health ecosystem – coupled with our visionary leadership and governance – we continue forward in catalyzing advancements in health and making the impossible, possible.