Hearts of Gold Gala Raises over $400,000 to Support Healthcare Initiatives Across the Region

Northeastern Health System (NHS) and the Tahlequah Hospital Foundation celebrated an extraordinary evening of generosity and service at the annual Hearts of Gold Gala held last Friday night. The event raised more than $400,000 to support health education scholarships, new facility buildings, expansion of service lines, and programs that provide direct support to patients and NHS employees. The evening also honored four individuals whose service, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on healthcare and the Tahlequah community.

Heart of Gold Award- Zoe Ann Storer

The Heart of Gold Award was presented to Zoe Ann Storer for her unwavering commitment to volunteerism and service. Zoe Ann began volunteering at Tahlequah City Hospital in the evenings, finding purpose and connection through serving others. Over the years, she has also volunteered with First Christian Church and the Tahlequah Food Pantry, dedicating countless hours to improving the lives of those around her. Her service has earned her recognition as “Volunteer of the Year” and recipient of the Volunteer with Spirit Award. Her legacy reflects a simple but powerful belief: volunteering is not just an act of service — it is a calling that strengthens the entire community.

Dr. Mary Culver Carlile Lifetime Achievement Award - Todd Mutzig

The Dr. Mary Culver Carlile Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Todd Mutzig, a lifelong Tahlequah resident, business leader, and community advocate. Todd and his wife, Paula, have not only built a thriving local business, but also invested deeply in revitalizing downtown Tahlequah. Since its inception, Todd has supported the Hearts of Gold Gala through generous jewelry donations that have helped generate significant funding for healthcare initiatives.

Todd’s commitment to NHS stems from his belief that strong healthcare reflects the strength and foresight of a community willing to invest in its future. His lifetime of service embodies leadership, generosity, and hometown pride.

Thompson Award - Dr. Kelly Marak & Dr. Creticus Marak

The Thompson Award was presented to Dr. Kelly Marak and Dr. Creticus Marak for their outstanding patient care and unwavering commitment to the Tahlequah community.

Dr. Kelly Marak, an Internal Medicine physician and NHS residency graduate, has been instrumental in strengthening the Internal Medicine residency program. Dr. Creticus Marak, a pulmonologist and intensivist, has elevated specialty care in the region while promoting lung cancer screening and reducing unnecessary patient transfers. Beyond medicine, the couple has invested in Tahlequah’s economic and community development, including creating The Legacy at MK Ranch — a venue designed to keep weddings and local commerce within the community. They are deeply involved in educational and faith-based initiatives while raising their two sons.

Together, their vision is bold: to expand services at NHS and continue building a healthcare system that serves as a regional leader for Northeast Oklahoma.

McIntosh, Masters, Medearis Award - Dr. Jack Casas

The McIntosh, Masters, Medearis Award was presented to Dr. Jack Casas for his exceptional work in interventional cardiology. Since coming to Oklahoma, Dr. Casas has become a cornerstone of cardiac care in Tahlequah. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: talk with patients, not at them. Through advances in interventional cardiology and his patient-centered approach, he has improved outcomes for countless individuals across the region. Dr. Casas credits his family, faith, and colleagues for shaping his journey and remains dedicated to expanding access to advanced cardiac care locally.