Albany Med Health System Honors John Nigro and Patricia and Kenneth Raymond with 2026 Pillars Awards
The Albany Med Health System honored Capital Region business and philanthropic leaders John Nigro and Patricia and Kenneth Raymond as recipients of the 2026 Pillars Awards during the 28th annual Arnold Cogswell Dinner. Named for the iconic columns at the entrance to Albany Medical Center, the Pillars Award recognizes individuals whose leadership, philanthropy, and service have strengthened the Albany Med Health System and advanced its mission of patient care, research, and education.
The annual event also celebrates the legacy of Arnold Cogswell, former director and president of Albany Medical Center, whose vision helped unite Albany Medical College and Albany Medical Center Hospital and laid the foundation for what has become the Albany Med Health System.
“Arnold Cogswell understood that meaningful progress happens when people come together around a shared purpose,” said Raimundo C. Archibold, chairman of the Albany Med Health System Board of Directors. “John Nigro and Pat and Ken Raymond exemplify that same spirit. Through their leadership, generosity, and commitment to this region, they have strengthened our communities and helped ensure that Albany Med can continue delivering exceptional care, advancing medical education, and driving innovation for generations to come.”
During the event, Albany Med Health System President and CEO Dan Pickett reflected on the organization’s First Choice 2030 vision, and the critical role philanthropy plays in shaping the future of health care.
“John, Pat, and Ken have demonstrated what is possible when accomplished leaders invest not only in successful enterprises, but in the health and well-being of entire communities,” Pickett said. “Their generosity has expanded access to care, strengthened education and research, and improved the lives of countless patients and families. They are true partners in our mission and exemplify the leadership and vision required to build the future of health care.”
Nigro, president of Nigro Properties and vice chair and secretary of the Albany Med Health System Board of Directors, has played a pivotal role in advancing numerous transformational initiatives, including Albany Medical Center’s Patient Pavilion, the Park South redevelopment project, the Massry Family Children’s Emergency Center, and the Lifeline Campaign, which raised $149 million to support patient care, education, and research.
“Albany Med is one of our region’s most important institutions because of the impact it has on people and communities every day,” Nigro said. “This health system has an extraordinary mission and an incredible future. I have had the privilege of working alongside so many dedicated physicians, caregivers, leaders, and supporters who make that mission possible, and I am honored to support the people and programs that make a difference in the lives of patients and families every day.”
Patricia and Kenneth Raymond were recognized for their longstanding commitment to Albany Med and their support of initiatives that have enhanced patient care, education, and research throughout the region. The founder and principal of Prime Companies, Ken, and his wife, have been longtime champions of numerous community organizations. Their philanthropy at Albany Med includes the Mary Ann Donnelly Endowment for Urological Care, Education, and Research, the Mary Ann Donnelly Professorship in Surgical Oncology, support for the Patient Pavilion and Massry Family Children’s Emergency Center, and a planned gift through the Pillars Society.
“Pat and I have always believed that giving back is one of life’s greatest responsibilities and privileges,” Kenneth Raymond said. “Albany Med cared for our family during some of our most difficult moments, and we are grateful for the opportunity to help ensure that others continue to receive the same exceptional care. This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects values that are deeply important to our family: compassion, service, and commitment to community.”
Albany Med Health System board members, donors, community leaders, physicians, and supporters attended the event, which highlighted Albany Med Health System’s continued growth and its First Choice 2030 vision to become the first choice for patient experience, quality, and clinical excellence.