Local surgeon emphasizes community engagement, strategic partnerships, and the future of healthcare across Central Kentucky.
For Dr. Justin Kolasa, giving back to the community is deeply personal. Born at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center and raised in Stanford, Kentucky, he brings both a lifelong connection to the region and a vision for its future to his new role as Chair of the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation Board of Directors.
“I’ve always believed in growing where your feet are planted,” said Dr. Kolasa. “This community has been part of my life from the beginning, and I believe in giving back to the people and healthcare system that serve it.”
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Danville Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Kolasa earned his medical and dental degrees from the University of Kentucky, where he also completed his surgical residency. His wife, Dr. Katrina Kolasa, is a breast surgeon at Ephraim McDowell Commonwealth Cancer Center.
As Board Chair, Dr. Kolasa hopes to strengthen the Foundation’s role in advancing healthcare through thoughtful leadership, stronger community partnerships, and strategic investments that address the region’s evolving needs.
His priorities include greater collaboration with Ephraim McDowell Health leadership, increased involvement among physicians and healthcare professionals, and broader engagement from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations throughout the Foundation’s eight-county service area.
“Philanthropy allows us to do more than provide medical care,” Dr. Kolasa said. “It gives us an opportunity to address needs, expand resources, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people who depend on us.”
Serving Boyle, Mercer, Garrard, Lincoln, Casey, Washington, Marion, and Pulaski counties, the Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen healthcare close to home.
In 2026 alone, the Foundation has directed more than $600,000 toward healthcare improvements and community initiatives, including specialized isolettes for NICU patients in the Labor & Delivery Unit, a new ultrasound machine for the Cancer Center, and equipment enhancements for the Wellness Center and Cardiac Rehabilitation.
Its impact extends beyond medical equipment through initiatives such as the Kids Can Do Pediatric Therapy Center, which supports children with disabilities through programs including Camp Can Do and Kids Can Dance, creating opportunities for growth, independence, and inclusion. The Chaplain’s Fund provides additional support by helping patients access essential prescriptions and medical supplies when financial hardships arise.
For Dr. Kolasa, these investments demonstrate why local philanthropy matters.
“The beauty of local philanthropy is seeing the impact of your generosity right here in your own community,” he said. “These are our friends, families, and neighbors. When we invest in local healthcare, we’re investing in the people who matter most to us.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Kolasa believes the Foundation’s continued success will depend on anticipating healthcare needs, maintaining transparency in how charitable contributions are used, and inspiring more people to become involved.
He also emphasizes the responsibility of the Board of Directors to lead by example and serve as ambassadors for the Foundation’s mission.
“Leadership is about setting an example,” he said. “If we want to inspire others to become involved, we have to demonstrate that same commitment ourselves.”
As he begins his tenure, Dr. Kolasa looks forward to working alongside the Foundation’s Board, health system leadership, and community partners to strengthen local healthcare and ensure philanthropy continues making a meaningful difference for generations to come.
You don’t have to make an extraordinary gift to make an extraordinary difference.
To learn more about the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation or opportunities to give, contact Brandie James at bjames@emhealth.org or 859-239-2362.