Liberal, KS – Southwest Medical Center (SWMC) is honored to announce a notable gift from the estate of long-time SWMC employee Clifford Pepper and his late wife, Irene Pepper. Their generous donation of $828,766.63 to the Southwest Medical Center Foundation will establish the Clifford and Irene Pepper Scholarship Fund, a new endowment dedicated to supporting the recruitment and retention of nurses, respiratory therapists, and lab technicians at SWMC.
Clifford Pepper, a dedicated employee for over 42 years, began his journey with SWMC on February 22, 1966, as a medical lab technician. His commitment and skill led him to become a Medical Technologist Supervisor, where he was known for his exceptional work ethic, integrity, and dedication. He retired on March 9, 2010, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and compassion that touched many lives.
Reflecting on her time working alongside him, Terra Kitch, Benefits Coordinator at SWMC, described Clifford as “excellent to work with. He truly loved the hospital.” Another former colleague, Gabriel Ramirez, the hospital’s former Lab Director, recalls Clifford as “a very competent employee—knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help.” He continued, “Cliff was the type of person who would go out of his way to cover other shifts. He and Irene made it a point to celebrate everyone’s birthdays, and they created a family atmosphere for our department.”
Irene Pepper was also well-known in the Liberal community for her dedication and warmth. After graduating from Liberal High School, she worked as a teller at People’s National Bank, and later as a front-desk manager for Dr. Nevins and Dr. Ray Allen. Throughout their lives, Clifford and Irene were inseparable and cherished by friends and family as kind-hearted, supportive, and humble.
The Clifford and Irene Pepper Scholarship Fund will be managed locally, ensuring that all proceeds are directed towards establishing a sustainable source of support for healthcare professionals. “We are deeply grateful for this transformative gift,” stated Amber Williams, CEO of Southwest Medical Center. “The Peppers’ legacy will live on, supporting generations of healthcare professionals in the Liberal community and enhancing the level of care we provide to our patients.”
Clifford and Irene’s dedication to SWMC and their selfless vision for the future of healthcare in Liberal exemplify their profound commitment to their community. Their generosity will continue to impact the lives of SWMC employees, patients, and the Liberal community for years to come.
For more information on the Clifford and Irene Pepper Scholarship Fund or to learn about the Southwest Medical Center Foundation, please contact the SWMC Director of Marketing Janeth Vazquez at 620-629-6335.