Pardee gala honors Philanthropist, Physician of the Year, toasts 'next 30 years'Dr. Stephen Gamboa was honored as the 2026 Physician of the Year at the hospital's annual gala..Nearly 300 guests celebrated three decades of philanthropy, honored the 2026 Philanthropist and Physician of the Year and heard about a new commitment to adolescent behavioral healthcare during Pardee Royale, the Pardee Hospital Foundation’s signature summer event, on July 25 at Blue Ridge Community College. The foundation also recognized Dr. Stephen Gamboa as the 2026 Physician of the Year, praising his exceptional clinical excellence, compassionate patient care and leadership. Emaus shared his personal story and his commitment to advancing adolescent behavioral health, reinforcing the importance of the foundation’s latest philanthropic initiative. Amy Treece, executive director of Pardee Hospital Foundation, seconded the salute. During the program, foundation leaders invited the community to help establish a legacy of support for adolescent behavioral healthcare by donating to an outdoor healing environment for teens.