08/12/2026
Congratulations to the class of 2026-27 and our newest Patricia Frist Memorial Scholars!
Established by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, the Patricia Frist Memorial Scholarship supports eligible dependents of full-time and part-time colleagues as they pursue undergraduate education. Beginning in 2026, scholarships are now renewable for up to three additional years or until completion of an undergraduate degree, helping extend the impact for colleagues and their families.
Among this year’s recipients is Colton Deatherage, whose mother, Joy, serves as a Registered Vascular Technologist at West Valley Medical Center. Colton is entering his sophomore year at Rocky Mountain College, where he is pursuing a degree in accountancy.
“Knowing that they believe in me and my abilities to enhance my community with my education gives me so much confidence heading into my sophomore year,” Colton shared. “It gives me motivation to honor the legacy and philanthropy of Patricia Frist and the work ethic instilled in me by my mom and family.”
Colton credits his mom’s example of hard work and dedication as a source of inspiration, recalling the extra shifts and early mornings she took on while also caring for their family. For Colton, the scholarship not only helps ease the financial burden of tuition, but also provides encouragement to continue working hard, giving back and making a difference in his community.
This year, the Patricia Frist Memorial Scholarship supported 29 recipients across HCA Healthcare’s Mountain Division, providing more than $100,000 in funding. Across HCA Healthcare, more than 634 scholarships were awarded to support the educational goals of colleagues’ dependents.
Congratulations, Colton, and all of this year’s Patricia Frist Memorial Scholars. By investing in the educational goals of our colleagues’ families, we’re helping open doors to new opportunities and healthier tomorrows!
