Methodist Foundation welcomes Garner and Hankins to board

In June, Methodist Healthcare Foundation welcomed Karen Garner and David Hankins as new members of the Board of Directors.

As the President and Founder of Magnolia Homes, Inc. and Principal Broker of Oak Grove Realty, LLC, Karen Garner has been a leader in custom-home building in the Memphis area for over 33 years.

Karen’s personal connection to and generous support of Methodist Hospice inspired her to join the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

“Methodist Hospice provided the most compassionate and loving care for my Mother during her last days,” said Garner. “When my Mom needed Hospice care, there was not a Hospice Residence in Memphis. So, I committed financial support so that the Methodist Hospice Residence could be built for patients and families in need. For some patients, this Residence is not only their last home—it is the nicest place they will ever live. Our contributions make that last home possible for all, regardless of their circumstances or ability to pay. I am honored to serve on the Board and to continue to support the Methodist Healthcare Foundation.”

In addition to her role with Methodist, Karen is a past Board member of the West Tennessee Home Association and active donor to the Tennessee Builders Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Memphis Child Advocacy Center.

David Hankins is the co-owner of Hankins, Inc., a hi-tech pine lumber manufacturing corporation, and Hankins Forest Products, Inc. He and his two brothers started Hankins, Inc. over 30 years ago.

A registered forester, David represents Mississippi on the Board of Governors and the Executive Committee for the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau, and he is an emeritus member of the Mississippi Forestry Association Board of Directors and a past president of the Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers Association.

In 2010, David received a liver transplant from the Methodist’s James D. Eason Transplant Institute – an experience that inspired him and his wife, Rita, to become generous donors to Methodist Healthcare Foundation.

“My surgeon and every member of the team were top notch professionals and exceptionally kind,” said Hankins. “The Methodist staff became like an extended family to us. They were genuinely willing to do whatever was needed to make my family and me comfortable and full of hope in a stressful situation. We have seen first-hand the quality of care and dedication provided by Methodist, and we want to help ensure that these facilities are here to help other families and also to provide resources to keep advancing patient care.”

The new members were approved at the June 2020 Board meeting by fellow Board members: Nick Bragorgos, Board Chair; Wilson Moore, Vice Chair; Michael Drake, Assistant Secretary; Sally Aldrich, Dana Armstrong, Roshun Austin, Wes Barnett, Yvonne Madlock, and Rev. Dr. Shane Stanford.