Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Children’s is entering a new chapter after receiving a historic $50 million donation that leaders say will shape pediatric care in the state for decades to come. The transformative gift was made by philanthropist, entrepreneur, and longtime child health advocate B. Thomas Golisano, marking the largest single philanthropic contribution in the health system’s history.
Hospital officials say the funding will support critical areas across the organization, including new program development, workforce recruitment, and upgrades to medical facilities. The investment is expected to strengthen Arkansas Children’s ability to meet rising demand while expanding access to specialized pediatric care for families throughout the region.
“Children’s hospitals are essential to the health and future of our communities, and each one serves families with unique needs and challenges,” said Tom Golisano. “Arkansas Children’s has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing pediatric care, expanding access, and investing in innovation. I’m proud to support their work and to welcome them into the Golisano Children’s Alliance as we continue building a collaborative network focused on improving outcomes for children nationwide.”
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In recognition of the gift, Arkansas Children’s announced that its Little Rock campus will now be known as the Arkansas Children’s Golisano Campus. Hospital leaders described the naming as both a symbol of gratitude and a reflection of a shared mission centered on improving children’s health.
“These landmark investments reflect an extraordinary belief in what Arkansas Children’s is building for families across America’s heartland,” said Fred Scarborough, executive vice president and chief development officer for Arkansas Children’s. “As a health system, we are investing more than $371 million to fuel innovation and expand access. Every gift matters because philanthropy is the margin of excellence — ensuring we can continue to meet the growing needs of children today and well into the future.”
Alongside the financial support, Arkansas Children’s will also join the Golisano Children’s Alliance, a national network of 12 children’s hospitals committed to advancing high-quality pediatric care. Membership in the alliance connects hospitals through shared best practices, collaboration, and a common focus on improving outcomes for children and families.
Hospital leadership emphasized that the donation comes at a time when pediatric health systems nationwide are facing increasing pressure, from workforce shortages to the growing complexity of childhood illnesses. Leaders say the gift provides both stability and momentum, allowing Arkansas Children’s to plan boldly while keeping care close to home.
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“The need for services continues to change and grow — and we are committed to providing the best care, research, and outcomes for the patients we serve,” said Marcy Doderer, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Arkansas Children’s. “Mr. Golisano’s extraordinary generosity is an investment in Arkansas Children’s, ensuring access to the best answers medicine can offer. This gift elevates our work as a pediatric health center of excellence, expanding care close to home for the children of America’s heartland.”
Founded on a mission to serve all children regardless of ability to pay, Arkansas Children’s has long relied on philanthropic support to push beyond basic care and invest in innovation. Leaders say this gift strengthens that mission while positioning the hospital system to grow responsibly and sustainably.
As plans move forward, hospital officials say families may begin to see the impact through expanded services, enhanced facilities, and continued recruitment of specialized medical professionals. While the full effects of the gift will unfold over time, leaders agree the donation represents more than funding — it signals confidence in Arkansas Children’s vision and its role in shaping the future of pediatric health care in the region and beyond.
