Valued Voice

In recognition of WHA President & CEO Eric Borgerding’s retirement and 27 years of service to Wisconsin’s hospitals, the WHA Foundation is proud to announce the creation of the Eric Borgerding Health Care Advocacy Scholarship. The scholarship will support the development of future health policy leaders while celebrating Eric’s lasting contributions to advocacy on behalf of Wisconsin hospitals.

"It seems like not that long ago that I was given the opportunity as a UW-Madison undergrad to intern alongside of one of Wisconsin's premier lobbyists," said Borgerding. "Now nearly four decades later, I am truly honored to be a part of the next generation of Wisconsin health care advocates and am very grateful to those who have contributed the resources to make this possible. And best of all, it will be an opportunity right here at WHA. No better place to learn. Very exciting for all involved."

This new scholarship honors Eric’s unwavering commitment to advancing public policies that have helped Wisconsin hospitals lead the nation in quality, access and innovation. Throughout his career, Eric championed countless initiatives that continue to shape the state’s health care landscape—from restoring medical liability reforms to expanding Medicaid hospital funding and guiding WHA’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Eric’s legacy is one of bold advocacy and strategic leadership. This scholarship ensures that future leaders will be inspired and equipped to carry forward that same mission,” said WHA Board Chair Dr. Jeff Bahr.

A Lasting Legacy for Future Advocates

Each year, two students will participate in a 15-week WHA internship, gaining hands-on experience in health policy, regulatory affairs and advocacy. Following the internship, participants will present their work to the WHA Foundation and may be awarded up to $5,000 each. The program aims to cultivate future leaders who share Eric’s passion for improving health care through smart, effective policy.

The WHA Foundation has already raised more than $230,000 to fund the program. The scholarship was formally announced by WHA Senior Vice President, Government Relations and incoming President and CEO Kyle O’Brien at Eric’s retirement reception on June 19. 

Thank You to Our Generous Contributors

The WHA Foundation gratefully acknowledges the individuals and organizations whose generous contributions are bringing the Eric Borgerding Health Care Advocacy Scholarship to life. These gifts celebrate Eric’s remarkable legacy and invest in the future of health care policy leadership in Wisconsin.

Legacy Leader

• Ascension Wisconsin
• Aspirus Health
• Emplify Health

Visionary Advocate

• Aurora Health Care
• HealthPartners – Amery, Hudson and Westfields Hospitals & Clinics
• Prairie Ridge Health
• UW Health

Founding Contributor

• Children’s Wisconsin
• Damond Boatwright
• Findorff
• Godfrey & Kahn
• Hospital Sisters Health System
• Husch Blackwell
• M3 Insurance
• Platform Communications
• Quarles
• RWHC Healthy Wisconsin Foundation
• SSM Health – Wisconsin
• Tomah Health
• UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital

Supporting Partner

• CG Schmidt
• Cumberland Healthcare
• Door County Medical Center
• Edgerton Hospital & Health Services
• First Business Bank
• Health Policy Source
• Kyle & Laura O’Brien
• Reedsburg Area Medical Center
• Dan & Amy Rohrbach
• Schreiber GR Group
• Southwest Health
• Spooner Health
• Stoughton Health
• The Kammer Group
• The Richland Hospital & Clinics
• Upland Hills Health, Inc.

Friend of the Fund

• Capitol Navigators
• Dr. Michael & Laurie Dolan
• Essentia Health
• Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin
• Rachel Roller

Join Us in Honoring Eric

There is still time to support this meaningful tribute. Every gift helps grow the fund and expands opportunities for future health care advocates.

To make a contribution, visit our website or contact Kari Hofer, Vice President, External Affairs. Contributions from corporate or personal funds are welcome and are fully tax-deductible through the WHA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization.