Roberts has more than 20 years of experience in broadcasting and has covered numerous special events ranging from the homecoming of soldiers aboard the USS Roosevelt to the 25th anniversary of the papacy of Pope John Paul II in Vatican City.

“Robin has used her talents and opportunity in broadcasting to better the lives of individuals and communities,” said Jeff Lea, MTMC Foundation executive director. “We are thrilled to have her speak during this year’s gala, to an audience who shares her compassion for others.”

In August 2005, Roberts found her personal and professional lives collide when Hurricane Katrina devastated the city of New Orleans and the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast – a part of the country she has called home for most of her life.

Roberts reported live amid the devastation in the days following the storm and has returned numerous times to report on progress in the area.

She has also covered the war in Iraq, making several trips to the war-torn area.

From 1990 to 2005, Roberts was also a contributor to ESPN, where her assignments included SportsCenter, WNBA games, and the Olympics.

“In addition to covering world events, Robin has nationally broadcasted her personal experiences as a breast cancer patient,” said Lea. “She will not only inspire our audience, but share a story many can relate to.”  

In 2007, the MTMC Foundation established the Rutherford Society as a group of individuals who share the commitment to enriching the health and quality of life for the citizens of Rutherford County by supporting MTMC.

Each year, the first-class Rutherford Society Gala recognizes donors over the past year. This year’s gala will be held Jan. 22, 2011 at the Stones River Country Club in Murfreesboro.

Invitations to the gala are given to donors of $1,000 or more in a calendar year, and this year the MTMC Foundation has created a new giving level of $500 a calendar year for clergy and donors under 35.

Donors can designate their gift to various hospital funds such as the Building Fund, Cancer Fund, Clara and Ed Delbridge Nursing Scholarship Fund or Heart Fund.

For information on the MTMC Foundation or how to attend the Rutherford Society Gala, call 615-396-4996, e-mail jeana.campbell@mtmc.org, or visit www.mtmc.org/foundation.