Blood Center Mourns Loss of Former Chairman

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July 26, 2010

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center mourns the loss of a visionary leader and dedicated volunteer, as Matthew Provenzano, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, passed away on July 22, 2010.

Matt began his affiliation with The Blood Center in August 1974 when he and Dr. George Alexander collaborated to secure a loan and a line of credit from Texas Commerce Bank to open Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Matt, an officer at Texas Commerce Bank, and Dr. Alexander secured guarantees for $1,000 from each of 100 people (99 physician members of the Harris County Medical Society and one non-physician) as collateral for the loan and an equal line of credit. In November 1976, Matt attended a Blood Center Board of Trustees meeting to advise the board that the bank was pleased with the center’s operations, and released all signers from their guarantee; the center continues its affiliation with the bank (now J.P. Morgan Chase Bank).

Matt was highly respected for his integrity; his sensitivity to patients, donors and staff; and his diligence of the center’s finances. He was one of the first non-physicians to be elected to the board and served for more than 20 years, holding such offices as chairman of the Finance Committee, treasurer, member of the Building Committee, member of the Development Committee and in recent years, Chairman of the Board. He served as the first non-physician Chairman of the Board until his recent health conditions prevented him from attending meetings. He earned the respect of his peers in the banking business, his peers on the center’s board, leaders in the medical community and the staff at the center. Matt was a consummate gentleman and was fiercely proud of his beloved wife, Shirley; his children; the University of Houston and The Blood Center.

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is blessed to have had Matt as a strong supporter, volunteer leader and advocate for so long. Matt’s imprint on the organization will last for many, many years, and his positive influence will never be forgotten.