Childerguild to Honor Dr. Philomena Verghese, A.J. Wilhelmi at Nov. 21 Ball

Childerguild to Honor Dr. Philomena Verghese, A.J. Wilhelmi at Nov. 21 Ball

Dr. Philomena Verghese will receive the Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence at the 97^th annual Childerguild Ball on Nov. 21.

A.J. Wilhelmi will receive the Silver Cross Sangmeister Medal of Excellence at the 97th annual Childerguild Ball on Nov. 21.

Childerguild, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing women and children's healthcare services at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, is pleased to announce its 97^th annual Childerguild Ball on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026, at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.

Guests will step into the spotlight for an unforgettable Hollywood-inspired evening of red-carpet glamour, dazzling entertainment, and star-worthy celebrations, presented by First Secure Banks.

The elegant evening will honor two distinguished leaders whose careers have made a lasting impact on healthcare in Illinois and beyond: anesthesiologist Dr. Philomena Verghese, who will receive the Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence for Healthcare Service, and Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA) President and CEO A.J. Wilhelmi, who will receive the Sangmeister Medal of Excellence for Community Service.

Event Highlights:

• Cocktails: 6 p.m.
• Award Presentations: 7 p.m.
• Dinner, Live Auction, Paddle Raise, Raffle Drawing and Wine Pull
• Dancing to the music of Gentlemen of Leisure

Tickets: $350 per person, including an open bar. Sponsorships are available. Black-tie attire is optional.

Since 1913, Childerguild has raised over $6.8 million for women and children's healthcare services at Silver Cross Hospital. The annual Childerguild Ball, which began in 1928, has been a cornerstone fundraiser for the hospital's Obstetrics and Pediatrics departments, thanks to the dedication of Childerguild members and the community.

Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence for Healthcare

Recipient: Dr. Philomena Verghese

The Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence honors the legacy of George H. Sehring, M.D., a devoted physician who served the community for over 40 years. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional achievements in the healthcare profession.

The 2026 Silver Cross Sehring Medal of Excellence recipient is anesthesiologist Dr. Philomena Verghese, who's devoted more than four decades to advancing patient care, medical education, and physician leadership.

Her journey in medicine began in India, continued through specialty training in the United Kingdom and the United States, and ultimately led her to Silver Cross Hospital, where she has served for the past 25 years.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Verghese has held numerous leadership positions, including Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology, and has served on key medical staff committees focused on quality, physician wellness, and clinical excellence. She also played an important role in building a highly respected anesthesia program that has supported the growth of advanced surgical services at Silver Cross.

Silver Cross Sangmeister Medal of Excellence for Community Service

Recipient: A.J. Wilhelmi

The Sangmeister Medal of Excellence will be presented to A.J. Wilhelmi, President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA), where he and the IHA collaborate with state leaders, legislators, and other key stakeholders to develop workable solutions to support patients, hospitals and the state's health care delivery system of more than 200 hospital and health system members in Illinois.

Before joining the IHA, Wilhelmi practiced law with the late Congressman George Sangmeister; served as a healthcare consultant; and represented the 43rd District in the Illinois Senate, where he chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee and served on several other key committees. His longstanding commitment to public service also includes leadership roles with numerous civic, educational, and economic development organizations throughout Will County.

A lifelong resident of Joliet, Wilhelmi has dedicated much of his career to improving the quality of life for residents throughout the region through public service, advocacy, and community engagement. He currently resides in Joliet with his wife, Michelle, and their three daughters.

Secure Your Tickets or Sponsorship

Tickets and sponsorships can be secured at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/96thchilderguildball or by emailing [email protected]