In honor and recognition of Claude Mayo's contributions to the growth and development of Nash Health Care, Nash Health Care Foundation has announced that an endowment has been established that will benefit the state-of-the-art surgery pavilion which bears his name.

"Claude Mayo's life had a profound impact on Nash County and the surrounding areas. He cared deeply for his community and laid the foundation for growth and development at Nash Health Care," said Larry Chewning, president and CEO of Nash Health Care. "Nash County was very fortunate to have had a strong community advocate on its Board of Commissioners."

Claude Mayo, former chairman of the Nash County Board of Commissioners, passed away earlier this year, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the economic development of Nash County.

"Mayo was not only a dedicated leader, a visionary, and a champion for Nash County, but he was a wonderful friend," said Norma Turnage, chairman of the Nash Health Care Foundation. "His influence and expertise will benefit future generations of Nash County citizens for decades to come. We are proud and pleased to be a part of this endowment that will benefit our entire community."

The endowment will ensure the continued development of Nash Health Care's Claude Mayo Jr. Surgery Pavilion. Money from the fund will be used to acquire innovative surgical instrumentation and technology. The 84,800 square-foot surgery pavilion was completed in 2004 and features seven operating rooms, 14 pre-op rooms and 13 recovery rooms.

The endowment will be administered by the Nash Health Care Foundation. Capital funding requests from the surgery pavilion will be submitted to the Foundation Board annually.

Donations are tax deductible, and may be sent to The Nash Health Care Foundation - Claude Mayo Jr Surgery Pavilion Endowment Fund, 2416 Professional Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. For more information, contact the Nash Health Care Foundation at 252-962-8585.