ETMC Dedicates Ellis Trauma Center

TYLER — East Texas Medical Center-Tyler celebrated what’s termed “visionary leadership” as its emergency center was named the Elmer G. Ellis Trauma Center Tuesday as part of a $1 million donation by the Robert M. Rogers Foundation. In 2005, ETMC Tyler embarked on an $8 million expansion and refurbishment of its emergency department, beginning with a major addition of 12 exam rooms and support areas located on the west side of the emergency drive.

The Rogers Foundation elected to support what hospital officials call “this vital capital project” through a $1 million pledge that was completed earlier this year. As part of its commitment, the foundation asked that the trauma center be named for Elmer G. Ellis, president/CEO of the East Texas Medical Center Regional Healthcare System at the project’s completion. “Nothing better reflects ETMC’s mission of care for East Texans – and the dedication of Elmer Ellis – than its trauma program,” said Wade C. Ridley, board chairman for the ETMC Foundation. “We are grateful to the Rogers Foundation for its outstanding support of the trauma center project, which will ultimately save countless lives.”

A bronze plaque honoring Ellis, located with the donor recognition wall, reads: “Through a landmark gift to this facility, The Robert M. Rogers Foundation recognizes Elmer G. Ellis, President/CEO, East Texas Medical Center Regional Healthcare System, for exemplifying ETMC’s mission of care to East Texas. His personal dedication has resulted in an unmatched emergency/trauma network throughout the region and beyond, and ETMC Tyler’s State of Texas designation as a Level I Trauma Center. This center is thereby dedicated in his honor and in recognition of the lives that will be saved within these hallowed walls.”