St. Elizabeth Foundation’s annual Samaritan Society Recognition Dinner recognizes those private donors who have generously supported the hospital and awards the Joseph W. Gross Leadership Award to a donor who not only gives but volunteers time and energy as well.
Joseph W. Gross was administrator of the hospital for 25 years, retiring in 2010.
Joe Koester, a well-knowe local businessman with Herzog Jewelers in Ft. Mitchell, has been a long-time advocate for St. Elizabeth, serving in many leadership positions on the Foundation board. The award was presented by current hospital President and CEO Garren Colvin at the celebration Saturday Night at the Drees Pavilion in Devou Park.
A native of Northern Kentucky, Koester represents the second generation of family at Herzog Jewelers.
After completing his Bachelor’s degree in economics at Eastern Kentucky University, Joe began a career with General Electric. Following his marriage to Valera Herzog, Joe joined the family business alongside his father-in-law and founder of Herzog Jewelers, Elmer T. Herzog. After eight years of continued success, Elmer retired and Joe purchased the family business.
Joe moved the store from its original location in Covington to a larger space in Fort Mitchell. He also received his Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and his Certified Gemologist degree from the American Gem Society (AGS).
He oversees the overall operations of the store as well as Herzog Jeweler’s extensive involvement in the community. He serves on several boards throughout the community in addition to the St. Elizabeth Foundation Board, including the Retail Jewelers Organization Board and the NKY Water District.
Colvin cited Koester’s long-time volunteerism, fundraising efforts and personal contributions ini support of the “St. Elizabeth mission to prodded extraordinary healthcare for our community.”
The Foundation offers opportunities for several levels of giving, including the Henrietta Cleveland Circle, the Samaritan Eagle Society, the Samaritan Gold Society and the Samaritan Gold Eagle Society, among others. See more information here.