The Hathaways

Good Hospital, Good Business

Both of them have roots over the mountain—she as co-owner of a family restaurant in Staunton and he as a paper and janitorial supplies distributor in Waynesboro. But Brenda and Curtis Hathaway have chosen to support Martha Jefferson in Charlottesville as their community hospital.

"We feel we have accomplished so much through sacrifice and hard work, and feel so blessed that we can share our good fortune with the community, and especially Martha Jefferson," says Curtis.

As businesspeople, the Hathaways recognize the importance of superior customer service, which in the medical field is epitomized by Martha Jefferson Hospital's caring tradition.

At Mrs. Rowe's Restaurant and Bakery, "my mother's philosophy was very simple: The customer always came first," Brenda says. "Martha Jefferson provides good service, an excellent staff, and great physicians."

For more than a quarter-century, Curtis's company, Hathaway Inc., has supplied paper, packing, and janitorial products. Every day, the former athlete draws on his experience as University of North Carolina quarterback to inspire in his employees a sense of teamwork and a drive to be the best—both characteristics he also recognizes in Martha Jefferson's staff and programs.
 
Until 1974, Brenda was a surgical and emergency care nurse, so she has an affinity for healthcare causes. She was part of Martha's Market in the early 1990s, and in 2000 served on the campaign steering committee that raised money to renovate and expand the hospital's maternity care center.

"We're looking forward to the new hospital and understand that it will require an extraordinary community response," Brenda says. "We are very committed to this project and will be very supportive in helping the Foundation attain its goal."

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