Kendall Fults earns the Humanitarian Award for service to community and Adventist Health

Fults is a business development manager for Adventist Health who previously served as Senior Vice President. He began his Valley career as a registered nurse at Hanford Community Hospital in 1986, but then shortly after was assigned to leadership roles. He was instrumental in the transition that took place when Adventist Health purchased the former Sacred Heart Hospital, and when the non-profit organization built the new Adventist Medical Center – Hanford. He and his teams also created several departments from the ground up, including JobCare, Kings Health, Rural Health and the Kings Regional Health Foundation, to name a few.

In 1989, Fults did the almost impossible and brought the legendary Bob Hope to perform at the Hanford Fox Theatre for the Foundation’s very first gala.

“The reason we chose a big name act, such as Bob Hope, was because we really wanted to establish the event,” he says. “It worked, because we had two sold-out shows and big names to follow, such as Red Skelton, Henry Mancini, John Denver and Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.”

Through the charity galas, Fults helped the Foundation raise over $1 million to benefit healthcare. He also helped organize the Willard S. Bridwell Humanitarian Award, named after the late Dr. Bridwell, who spent four decades caring for the community through his medical practice, his church and community service. Fults recalls fond memories of golfing with Dr. Bridwell and discussing health care matters.

“What a great opportunity for Kendall to receive such an award,” says Wayne Ferch, Central Valley Network President/CEO. “His leadership has resulted in the growth of physician services and healthcare facilities throughout the Central Valley.” 

When it came time for the Foundation committee to vote for the 2016 recipient, Jill Caviezel-Hoots, the Foundation director, said the committee members unanimously voted to honor Fults.

“The majority of the members had stories to tell about how he was always the person they could rely on and go to with concerns,” she says.

Fults, who grew up in Nebraska, has been in the community since 1985. His community involvement includes serving as a director of the Chamber of Commerce and president and member of the Rotary Club for more than 20 years, along with his Foundation work.

He said he was very humbled to receive the Bridwell award.

“I had a ton of respect for Dr. Bridwell,” says Fults. “He sacrificed his whole life for this community. I believe we all have a responsibility to support each other and the community. I would like to thank all of the staff, physicians and leaders who supported me over the years. To receive this award is truly an honor.”