The CAMC Foundation announced a $5 million philanthropic gift from the Elliot Family Foundation that will support neuroscience specialists focused on team-based patient care, educational instruction, research support, patient management and other critical functions.
The commitment represents the most significant gift in the CAMC Foundation’s history and coincides with the CAMC Foundation’s 50th anniversary.
In recognition of the gift, a new 30,000-square-foot facility will be named in honor of the family. Construction recently began on a state-of-the-art neuroscience building adjacent to the main entrance of Vandalia Health CAMC General Hospital.
Neurologic disorders such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and others are a significant health challenge in West Virginia. Currently, about 10% of the state’s population is affected by some form of neurologic disorder.
“The CAMC Foundation is profoundly grateful to the Elliot Family for their visionary leadership and generosity,” CAMC Foundation President Bryan Cummings said. “This gift will have a lasting impact — strengthening our ability to provide world class neuroscience care and ensuring we continue to serve our community at the highest level.”
“Today also reminds us that philanthropy is not just about giving — It’s about being part of something bigger than ourselves,” Cummings said. “The Elliot Family understands something deeply important: that strong communities are built not just through intention, but through action; through generosity that reaches beyond today and creates opportunity for generations to come.”
Fonda and John Elliot said, “We recognize philanthropy can accelerate innovation. It can open doors faster. It can bring new technology, expanded access, groundbreaking treatments, and enhanced patient experiences to people who need them most. Most importantly, philanthropy can create momentum. We are honored to stand alongside Vandalia Health and everyone who believes in its mission to help collectively create additional momentum for this community.”
The Elliots added, “If this gift encourages a family to become involved, a grateful patient to give back, or a donor to believe they can make a difference, then its impact will extend far beyond any building, program, or technology.”
“It is impossible to adequately thank the Elliot Family for this generous gift of investing in the future of neurological care in our community,” Vandalia Health President and Chief Executive Officer Dave Ramsey said. “The family’s gift will help Vandalia Health better serve the citizens of central and southern West Virginia by combining neuroscience specialists into one space for team-based patient care as well as opportunities for research.”
The Vandalia Health Elliot Neuroscience Institute will expand access to specialized care, introduce advanced technology and enhance the patient and family experience. This investment will directly benefit research, diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders.
The facility will include two floors that will be used for neurology and neurosurgery clinics, infusion and diagnostic space; and a third floor that will be a shell space for later development. The institute is expected to open in the fall of 2027.
