La Dolce Vita: Beaufort Memorial Foundation Gears Up for 37th Valentine Ball

The 37th Beaufort Memorial Foundation Valentine Ball is just around the corner, returning on Saturday, February 7 at Tabby Place in downtown Beaufort. This cherished community event continues to make a lasting impact on Lowcountry healthcare, raising tens of millions of dollars over its 36-year history and supporting Beaufort Memorial’s mission of accessible, compassionate care. 

The upcoming Ball promises an unforgettable evening filled with celebration, purpose and community spirit, all while supporting the Foundation’s Vision Campaign and its three key pillars: expanding access to care, advancing healthcare innovation and strengthening its workforce. 

Meet the 2026 Valentine Ball Co-Chairs 

This year’s event is co-chaired by Dr. Louis Plzak III, Ms. Ashley Wilson, and Mr. and Mrs. Chris and Jessica Egan – community leaders deeply connected to Beaufort Memorial and its mission. 

“We are so excited to announce the co-chairs for the 2026 Valentine Ball. These couples both share a deep passion for this organization,” said Kim Yawn, Beaufort Memorial Foundation Chief Development Officer. “Their connection to the community, Beaufort Memorial and the Foundation will be a guiding force as they lead the Ball into a new chapter this year.” 

Dr. Plzak serves as a urologist with Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists, while Jessica Egan is the Practice Operations Administrator for Beaufort Memorial Physician Partners following her role as Director of AccessHealth of the Lowcountry. They are excited to play an integral role in this year’s Valentine Ball fundraising efforts. 

“The Valentine Ball goes beyond one evening – it’s an investment in the health of our community,” said Egan. “We’re proud to lead this effort to ensure Beaufort Memorial continues to thrive.”

Supporting the Vision Campaign: Growth, Innovation and Workforce 

Funds raised through the Valentine Ball directly support the Beaufort Memorial Foundation’s Vision Campaign, focused on three essential pillars: 

1. Expanding access to quality care, including projects like the new 28-bed, $103 million Bluffton Community Hospital and the Crisis Stabilization Unit at the Beaufort Memorial Pratt Emergency Center, which will open in December.
2. Driving innovation in healthcare delivery, featuring advancements such as virtual inpatient nursing, supported by a $485,000 Duke Endowment grant, and the ongoing evolution of Beaufort Memorial into a “smart” hospital system.
3. Growing the healthcare workforce through partnerships with the Beaufort County School District (BCSD), Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) and University of South Carolina-Beaufort (USCB), as well as the addition of a 120-unit workforce housing project underway with LiveWell Terrace by BMH in Bluffton. 

“Beaufort Memorial is focused on smart growth, and we’re dedicated to reimagining how healthcare is delivered in the Lowcountry through our innovative partnerships and skilled, compassionate workforce,” said Beaufort Memorial CEO Russell Baxley. “Expanding access means meeting people where they are, and this organization is committed to this community and doing just that.” 

A Night to Remember: What’s New for the 2026 Valentine Ball 

This year’s Valentine Ball introduces an exciting new format blending tradition with fresh experiences. The Foundation’s signature event will take a break from the pre-ball dinner parties as they look for ways to ensure the continued future success of the event. 

The event begins on February 7 at Tabby Place with a cocktail hour at 7 p.m., followed by food stations, desserts and signature drinks inspired by the 2026 theme, the Amalfi Coast. 

At 8 p.m., the high-energy band MVP takes the stage to kick off the night’s dancing. 

Other event favorites during the Ball will include: 

• The Wine Pull – Guests can purchase a ticket for the chance to pick a mystery bottle of wine from a curated collection.
• Bubbles and Bling Raffle – One lucky champagne glass will hold a sparkling jewelry prize.
• Silent Auction (Jan. 24 to Feb. 8) – Open to the entire community, the silent auction offers a chance to bid on exclusive items and experiences. 

“For an event to thrive for nearly 40 years is truly remarkable, and evolution has been key to its continued success. While this year’s format may look a little different, the purpose of the Valentine Ball remains unchanged,” Yawn said. “It’s a celebration of generosity, community, and our shared belief in the vital role of local healthcare.” 

Continuing a Legacy of Care, Community and Compassion 

For nearly four decades, the Valentine Ball has united the Beaufort community in celebration and service. From elegant dinner parties to virtual galas during the COVID-19 pandemic, this event has adapted and thrived, always supporting the Beaufort Memorial Foundation mission to ensure high-quality, accessible healthcare for all. 

“Every gift, every sponsorship, every dance helps strengthen Beaufort Memorial and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Plzak. “The Ball is a powerful expression of generosity in action.” 

Mark your calendars and join the celebration in February. Invitations will be mailed out mid-December.

Learn more about the Foundation's Vision Campaign and its impact on the healthcare landscape in the Lowcountry and goal of shaping a healthier tomorrow.