Susquehanna Health Foundation recently held its 9th annual Lifetime Achievement Awards event recognizing the life’s work of Ronald L. “Ron” Cimini and Ronald V. “Ron” DeFeo, Jr., while also celebrating major donors to UPMC services and facilities in north central Pennsylvania.

Cimini was given the Philanthropist Award in honor of his life-long commitment to philanthropy, volunteerism and community service, according to a press release announcing the event.

Cimini, a Williamsport native, business owner and entrepreneur, opened Tory Leather in 1976.

After more than 40 years leading the organization, he committed his retirement to others, serving in countless leadership and volunteer roles, the release said.

“Ron’s passion for service and making the community a better place is exceptional,” said Patti Jackson-Gehris, president, UPMC in North Central Pa., in the news release. “He has led and supported community initiatives doing his part to help this region continue to be a place where people desire to set roots, raise families and live full, healthy lives.

“This recognition is well deserved for Ron’s exceptional generosity and support in encouraging others to see the potential that lies right here in the region and help others see the opportunity the way he does,” Jackson-Gehris said.

DeFeo was given the Trustee Award for exemplary service, selfless giving and commitment to the enhancement of local health care, the release said.

In addition to a lengthy corporate career, DeFeo began RVD Consultance and remained committed to community service.

For nearly 30 years, DeFeo served on multiple boards of the health system, eventually serving on the Partner Selection Committee, responsible for merging Susquehanna Health with UPMC in 2016, according to the news release.

“As a member of the board for the Susquehanna Health Care Alliance and a key leader in the partner selection committee in 2016, Ron’s vision and leadership provided the insight and perspective in both circumstances that led to the enhancement of health care in our community,” said Davie Jane Gilmour, chair, UPMC Williamsport Board of Directors, and vice chair, Susquehanna Board of Directors, a close colleague of DeFeo’s. “His support of quality care and the organization’s mission always guided his work and was evident in the outcome.

“This recognition is a testimony to Ron’s commitment to ensuring quality health care is accessible locally and positioning the health system to get to where it is today,” she said in the press release.

The event also celebrated major donors whose financial contributions have supported life-changing medicine at UPMC in North Central Pa.

“We are part of an incredibly generous community,” said Sherry Watts, president, Susquehanna Health Foundation, in the press release. “Many individuals and organizations make selfless contributions of leadership, time and resources. We are grateful for those who continue to give so much for the benefit of others.”