Don Fleming, SCV Business Leader, on Why Support Matters

“No community can ever be successful without a hospital to provide state-of-the art quality healthcare to its residents,” said Don Fleming. This was a principle that he and his late wife Cheri believed whole heartedly. Don is the owner of Valencia Acura and has been a business leader and philanthropist supporting the Santa Clarita Valley community for over twenty years. Don recalled that early on he and Cheri planned how they would use their time, talent, and treasure to be of service. Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital was first on their list.

Don and Cheri both took on active leadership roles within Henry Mayo serving on the on the Foundation’s board. Cheri later joined the Hospital Governing Board. “There were several challenges over the years that strained and impacted the hospital, but no matter what difficulties arose, Cheri and I were heavily invested,” said Don. “We believed that with the right leader at the helm, flanked by a strong board and executive leadership team, our hospital would be stronger. We found that leader the day Roger Seaver arrived at Henry Mayo.”

Over the years, Don’s support of Henry Mayo has been steady and unwavering. “Roger not only had a vision, but he had a plan to make investments that improved the hospital’s overall healthcare infrastructure,” said Don. “He and his team brought in first-rate healthcare professionals, improved patient care services, provided state-of-the art and innovative advancements in technology, and fostered growth and expansion with the Roberta G. Veloz Cardiovascular Center, and the Kim & Steven Ullman Neonatal Intensive Care Unit just to name a few. Roger made promises and delivered solutions that brought unimaginable success to our critically needed community hospital.”

Don grew up in Texas and served in the U.S. Marine Corp which was indicative of his strength and character. In 1997, he and wife Cheri purchased a struggling Valencia Acura and made it one of the highest-ranking customer satisfaction dealerships in the country. He has received numerous accolades and awards for his business leadership and volunteerism. Don leads by influence and example, traits he shared with Cheri. Don’s son Brian Fleming is also key in Valencia Acura’s great success.

Valencia Acura is a part of Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation’s Corporate Partners program whose annual giving commitment provides much needed support to critical programs such as Emergency & Trauma Services, and the Center for Women and Newborns. Recently, Don made a generous gift to the new patient tower in memory of Cheri who was an advocate and beloved member of the Henry Mayo family and the Santa Clarita Valley community.

“I encourage all residents in the SCV and surrounding communities to join me in supporting Henry Mayo because it provides the best in quality healthcare. It’s up to us to ensure that Henry Mayo is well positioned to care for our residents for years to come.”