Jeffrey Cumberbatch knows firsthand how Norton Healthcare Foundation makes difference for community

Story by: Julie Kruer on December 9, 2022

Jeffrey Cumberbatch — the chair of Norton Healthcare Foundation board of directors — has experienced firsthand why his role and volunteer service are so important. He is also a patient.

He is a stroke, cancer and heart attack survivor.

“It’s gratifying to see that the things we work on are making a difference,” he said.

Jeffrey, who has served on the board for more than 13 years, has spent a great deal of time at Norton Brownsboro Hospital receiving care, and he is continually impressed by the level of caring, knowledge and overall high level of efficiency at the hospital. He knows all about the importance of efficiency and accuracy in business from his 36-year career with UPS where, he worked in and retired from the transportation technology group.

“There’s not much room for error within the business,” he said. “That’s what motivates me every day to keep moving and making things a success.”

Jeffrey holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and since he retired, he has continued to nurture his love of science by reading and taking classes in anatomy and physiology.

“I’m not pursuing a degree, but I want to stay abreast of what we are doing,” he said.

He also stays busy with volunteer service. In addition to his work with the Norton Healthcare Foundation, he volunteers with the Omega Psi Phi Men of Quality Program, where he mentors young men. He has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters and has been a member of St. Stephen Baptist Church since 1999. He also spends time with his two adult sons, Marcus and Malcolm.

While Norton Healthcare has been important to Jeffrey’s personal health journey, his work with the board is really about supporting his community.

“I have a lot on my plate, but the thing is, you continue to push forward for things that are not only important for yourself, but for the community,” he said.

Jeffrey is particularly passionate about the Institute for Health Equity, a Part of Norton Healthcare, the new Norton West Louisville Hospital set to open in 2024 and the board’s role in supporting Norton Healthcare’s five imperatives for health equity, which aim to address health disparities resulting from racial inequality in our community.

“We are well on the way, and we continue to make great strides,” he said.

“Jeffrey brings with him so much passion, business acumen and dedication to his community,” said Lynnie Meyer, R.N., Ed.D., CFRE, senior vice president and chief development officer, Norton Healthcare. “We are so grateful for his leadership of the board during such an important time of progress within Norton Healthcare and our community.”

Throughout his tenure on the board, Jeffrey also has served on the finance and grants committee for the Norton Healthcare Foundation.

“When we are giving grants to a particular unit for a new X-ray machine, for example, you want to know that the hospital you’re going to has the latest equipment to be able to diagnose your situation and have a positive outcome for your family,” he said. “That’s the goal of the foundation, to continue to raise funds and give grants to move Norton forward in technology and areas of research in cancer, sickle cell anemia and all the things that are important to the community.

“For me, that’s really the bottom line. At the end of the day, it’s really about that individual who comes into your facility and knowing they’re getting the best care possible.”