St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound Names Two Volunteers of the Year

BRIDGEPORT and STRATFORD, January 2, 2008 - St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound held its annual Recognition Reception just before the Christmas holiday at the Barnum Museum in Bridgeport. Every year at the event, the SWIM announces the Volunteer of the Year. This year, for the very first time, the SWIM broke precedent and presented a Volunteer of the Year award to an employee of the Medical Center. David Ingmanson, Manager of Distribution and Transportation at St. Vincent's for nearly 23 years became the first employee to receive the recognition and long-time volunteer, Michael Finick, CPA, an auditor with the Royal Bank of Scotland was also recognized. They were both selected for their generous dedication, time and effort enabling the SWIM to support cancer patients and their families and to provide cancer screening and education programs at low or no cost.

The event, held just before the Christmas holiday, turned out a few hundred guests consisting of volunteers, sponsors and staff members of St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation, the SWIM's organizer.

Ronald J. Bianchi, President of St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation and Corporate Senior Vice President of St. Vincent's Medical Center, praised the volunteers. “Both Mike and Dave have each been volunteering for the SWIM for more than 15 years. They have helped make it what it is today,” Bianchi said. “The SWIM couldn't accomplish its goals without the support of all of our volunteers. Today we honor these two special people.”

The awards were presented by SWIM Across the Sound Co-chairs, Frank Scifo, MD of Trumbull and Jan Williams of Black Rock. “This year's recipients never look for or ask for accolades. In fact, my guess is that they are both a bit embarrassed about being singled out like this, but they both deserve to be recognized,” Scifo explained.

Michael Finick

Involved with the SWIM for more than 15 years, Finick has typically been found behind the scenes. As a Certified Professional Accountant, he has been a great asset to the SWIM at events, such as the SWIM Marathon, Aquathon, Walk/Run for Cancer and Diabetes, Children's Circus, the Swiss Army Sale and the Sports Gala. Although usually taking on a leadership role in the finance of the events, Finick has always been glad to roll up his sleeves and help with any task, understanding that assistance of all kinds is vital and important.

Those who have worked with him on events have said that he is dedicated, reliable and cheerful regardless of his busy schedule. He has always offered help of all kinds without being asked.

An Eagle Scout and an avid skier and traveler, Finick goes on two major trips each year to ski some of the most sought after trails. He is a graduate of Bentley and currently works for the Royal Bank of Scotland as an auditor. He also recently became involved with accounting for independent films.

In addition to his devotion to the SWIM, Finick also volunteers for the McGiveny Center and Habitat for Humanity. He has acquired useful carpentry and electrical skills while building houses for the needy. His parents, Walter and Pat Finick of Easton, were present to share in his celebration.

David Ingmanson

Ingmanson has worked at nearly every event throughout the past 20 years. He has always been counted on to come through when last minute needs arose. With a grassroots organization like the SWIM, there have been many challenges with transporting certain items to and from events and with finding enough staffing, but Ingmanson has continuously stepped in.

This past November, Ingmanson volunteered at all four consecutive days of the Victorinox Swiss Army Sale, which donates proceeds to the SWIM, giving up two nights during the work week as well as his entire weekend.

SWIM staff and volunteers have described him as dependable, generous and an exemplary volunteer and individual. He has always been passionate about St. Vincent's mission to meet the needs of the sick, poor, homeless, disabled and frail elderly in the greater Bridgeport area and has put that enthusiasm into action through his volunteer efforts for the SWIM.

In addition to working at St. Vincent's and volunteering for the SWIM, Dave also works two shifts per week with Stratford Emergency Medical Services, volunteers for the Bunnell High School Band and volunteers along with his wife of 23 years, Christine, for the Stratford PTA. Ingmanson and Christine (also an employee at St. Vincent's) have three children— Michael, age 20; Brian, age 17 and Alyssa, age 12. All were present at the reception to share in their father's recognition.