The Dr. David John and Carole LaVan Simons Fund for Clinical Excellence
UPMC Lititz Anesthesia Residency Endowment Fund
Investing in Education. Advancing Patient Care.
The Dr. David John and Carole LaVan Simons Fund for Clinical Excellence provides permanent support for the UPMC Lititz Anesthesia Residency Program, strengthening physician education and improving patient care across Central Pennsylvania.
Named in recognition of Dr. Simons’ lifelong commitment to community-based healthcare, this endowed fund reflects a legacy of leadership, excellence, and service. Dr. Simons has been deeply invested in the hospital from its early days as Community Hospital of Lancaster through its evolution into UPMC Lititz. He played a key role in preserving the hospital, strengthening the osteopathic community, and building and growing the Anesthesia Residency Program. Over his career, Dr. Simons has trained more than 75 anesthesia residents, shaping generations of physicians committed to safe, compassionate care.
Shaping the Future of Anesthesia Care
Anesthesiologists are central to patient safety in surgery, critical care, and emergency medicine. Preparing physicians for these high-stakes environments requires more than clinical experience alone. It requires advanced training, mentorship, innovation, and support.
Philanthropy ensures the residency program can deliver that level of excellence today and well into the future.
Annual earnings from the Endowment Fund provide flexible, long-term support that enhances every aspect of the residency experience, including:
- Advanced simulation and education technology
- Resident education, research, and scholarly opportunities
- Faculty development and structured mentorship
- Professional development and conference participation
- Recruitment, retention, and resident wellness initiatives
The principal of the fund remains intact in perpetuity, with annual distributions made in accordance with UPMC’s endowment spending policy.
Why Your Support Matters
Operational funding supports day-to-day patient care. Philanthropic support allows the program to grow, adapt, and lead.
Every gift to the Dr. David John and Carole LaVan Simons Fund for Clinical Excellence helps ensure that future anesthesiologists are trained to deliver safe, compassionate, and expert care when patients need it most.
Support at any level contributes to a lasting foundation of clinical excellence at UPMC Lititz.

