William E. and Nancy Froelich Endowment for Long Term Care

In 1960 William E. Froelich realized the need for a nursing home designed for and dedicated to providing quality services to meet the wide variety of needs of its residents. As a funeral director and operator of an ambulance service, Mr. Froelich’s compassion and understanding for the needs of the older adult and their families was profound. Mr. Froelich always aimed high, believing in “quality above everything else.” He presented his idea of a comprehensive care facility to his first partners, and soon thereafter, Heritage Nursing home became the first full-service nursing home in Bloomington, Illinois, in 1963.

Bill’s exemplary leadership and timely idea was the beginning of what was to become a large network of Heritage long term care facilities committed to a wide range of residential health care services for seniors.

Nancy Froelich’s name is associated with committed and engaged leadership in the local community, in business, higher education and nursing.

Nancy’s passion for excellence in health care extended to the Mennonite College of Nursing where she guided the College through her service on the board, first as Vice President from 1983-1990, and then as Vice Chairperson from 1991-1995. Nancy’s confidence in and commitment to the Mennonite College of Nursing continued through its transition to Illinois State University and the College acknowledged her dedication by awarding her the title of honorary nurse.

Bill and Nancy Froelich have long known that quality care in the nursing home is closely associated with quality nursing. Heritage Enterprises’ reputation is growing as a leader in long term care nursing. Through the establishment of the William and Nancy Froelich Fund at the Mennonite College of Nursing, the Froelichs ensure that nursing excellence in long term care remains a cornerstone of the Mennonite College of Nursing Program. In this way, the College will continue the tradition of innovation and compassion in long term care the Froelich’s inspired in the 1960’s.