Francelle “Fran” Calkins – longtime member of the Dr. Frank D. Merritt Children’s Hospital Guild of Auburn – will receive the Anna Clise Award for individual achievement.
The Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle will honor Calkins at its annual membership luncheon at the downtown Westin Hotel on May 6. The Auburn guild is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
The award is presented to individual guild members who exemplify the highest standards in volunteerism, leadership, community involvement and commitment to the mission of Children’s Hospital. The award honors the legacy of Clise who, in 1907, founded the hospital. Clise invited 23 of her friends to join her in contributing $20 each to ensure that all children would receive quality health care, regardless of a family’s resources.
“I get goosebumps when I talk about it,” Calkins said from her Auburn home. “I just never expected it, but volunteering is my middle name.”
Calkins, who retired from teaching after an extensive career, continues to volunteer at the Children’s Hospital Thrift Store in Kent and at the White River Valley Museum. The 77-year-old Calkins served on the ACAP board, in addition to doing a wide variety of community service.
Calkins, a member of the Auburn guild for 58 years, has lived in Auburn for 64 years.
She grew up and taught in South Dakota before moving to Wyoming and eventually to Auburn in 1945. She taught for 30 years, including many years in the elementary classroom for the Auburn School District.
Her late husband, Floyd “Tucker” Calkins, was a highly decorated Air Force veteran of World War II. They adopted two sons – John and Paul – who live in the area.
For many years, Calkins and the guild have supported many fundraising projects – from penny drives to hat sales, fashion shows to bridge marathons – to support the hospital.
“She is a true gem and delight that we are honored to call our friend and fellow child advocate,” said Debbie McGuire, Dr. F.D., guild president, who nominated Calkins for the award.
“She has given her gift of time, many talents, endless energy – and most importantly her true love of children – being the guild’s, and thus in turn, the hospital’s biggest supporter,” McGuire added.
