St. Anthony Foundation Announces Peggy White Spirit of Leadership Legacy Award

The St. Anthony Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural Peggy White Spirit of Leadership Legacy Award, a new recognition established in memory of Peggy White to honor local individuals who exemplify compassionate, faith-inspired leadership and have made a lasting impact across rural west central Iowa.

posted on 3/5/2026 in Press Releases

The award celebrates Peggy’s legacy of community development and her deep FranciscanPeggy values, which helped strengthen and unite communities throughout the region. She believed strong communities are built through service, courage, and a shared commitment to the common good. Peggy found great meaning in her long-standing service to St. Anthony, including her years of leadership on the St. Anthony Hospital Board of Directors (2013–2024), the St. Anthony Foundation (2014–2024), and as a founding member of St. Anthony Ministries as a juridic person in 2018. Her life and leadership continue to inspire others today.

St. Anthony Foundation serves as the steward of this grant in recognition of Peggy’s longstanding relationship with St. Anthony and her deep commitment to its Franciscan mission. Throughout her lifetime, Peggy advocated for access to high-quality health care close to home, aligning closely with the values and priorities of St. Anthony. This philanthropic partnership reflects both trust in the organization’s leadership and confidence in its ability to responsibly manage and advance investments. Beyond her support of St. Anthony, Peggy has provided exceptional leadership throughout the communities served, championing initiatives that strengthen health care access, promote community well-being, and inspire collaborative progress across the region.

“This award is about honoring leaders who not only make a difference, but who inspire others to do the same,” said Sarah Foley, St. Anthony Foundation Director. “Peggy White’s legacy lives on in the individuals who continue to serve with compassion, courage, and commitment to our rural communities.”

The Peggy White Spirit of Leadership Legacy Award recognizes individuals who reflect that same spirit of integrity, forward-thinking leadership, and service. Nominees should demonstrate a measurable positive impact and embody qualities of compassionate leadership, ethical decision-making, and community collaboration

To learn more or to recommend a nominee, click here. Applications are due Friday, April 10, 2026.