Golisano dedication
Mercy Flight Central Dedicates New Aircraft to Philanthropist Tom Golisano Ceremony Honors Longtime Supporter’s Transformational Impact on Lifesaving Mission
Syracuse, NY — Mercy Flight Central proudly honored philanthropist Tom Golisano during a special dedication ceremony held on Tuesday, June 3, outside Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital in Syracuse. The organization formally dedicated its newest aircraft—the AW119MKII helicopter—in recognition of Golisano’s decades of support and his recent $5 million gift to Mercy Flight Central.
Golisano’s generosity has had a lasting impact on the nonprofit air medical service provider. In 2006, he contributed $1.7 million toward a matching gift campaign that enabled the purchase of an EC-135 helicopter—the first brand-new aircraft in Mercy Flight Central’s history. Nearly two decades later, his support continues to propel the mission forward.
“It is especially fitting that we dedicate this newest aircraft to Tom,” said Jeff Bartkoski, President and CEO of Mercy Flight Central. “He helped us take a major step in 2006, and he is still by our side today, making it possible for us to expand, innovate, and save more lives across the region.”
The $5 million unrestricted gift was part of Golisano’s larger $360 million commitment to communities across Upstate New York. It will allow Mercy Flight Central to invest in aircraft, clinical training, safety, and critical operational needs—ultimately enhancing every mission flown.
Now in its 33rd year of service, Mercy Flight Central has transported over 18,000 patients across more than 25 counties in the Finger Lakes, Central New York, and Mohawk Valley regions. Many of those transports bring patients directly to Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, making the location of Tuesday’s ceremony especially meaningful.
“We are proud to deliver patients to a hospital that bears Tom’s name—a place that stands as a beacon of hope for countless families,” said Bartkoski. “This dedication is not just about a helicopter; it’s about honoring the vision, heart, and unwavering commitment of someone who has truly made our mission possible.”
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Golisano was presented with a custom model of the new aircraft as a token of appreciation for his continued support.